Whats Cookin – Grandma’s Fried Meatloaf
March 2025 Recipe…
Here’s a nostalgic and hearty recipe for Grandma’s Fried Meatloaf—crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside.
Prep Time: 20 minutes || Bake Time: 50 minutes || Cooling Time: 1 hour
Frying Time: 10-15 minutes || Makes: 6-8 servings || Total Time: 2.5 hours
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1½ lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 small chopped onion or dried minced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs
- 3-4 T ketchup
- 1 T Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp. salt
- ½ tsp. black pepper
- ½ tsp. paprika
For Frying:
- ½ cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup crushed crackers or Panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

Directions
Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper and paprika. (Using your hands to mix ensures that it’s mixed well.)
Step 2: Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
Step 3: Bake at 350 degrees for 50 minutes, or until cooked through.
Step 4: Let the meatloaf cool completely for at least v1 hour before slicing (can also be chilled overnight).
Step 5: Once cooled, cut the meatloaf into serving-size slices.
Step 6: Dredge each slice in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, then coat with crushed crackers or Panko.
Step 7: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each slice for about 3 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 8: Serve hot with mashed potatoes and side of green beans for a delicious homestyle meal.