Cast Iron Meatloaf: A Cozy Classic from My Kitchen

Yesterday I teased my Cast Iron Meatloaf in the Skillet Lasagna post—so naturally, I had to follow through and share the recipe! If you love hearty comfort food with a rustic twist, this one’s for you.

🍽 The Easy-Peasy Meatloaf

Back in 2023, I shared my go-to meatloaf recipe—simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy nights. If you missed it, [here’s the link to that post]. It’s still a favorite, especially when I want something quick and cozy.

But then I discovered the Iron Skillet version… and I was hooked.

🔥 Iron Skillet Meatloaf

This recipe is just as easy, but the cast iron skillet adds a depth of flavor and a beautiful crust. It originally called for bacon on top (because, well, bacon), but my oven didn’t crisp it quite right—so I usually skip it. Feel free to experiment!

Ingredients:

• 1½ lbs. ground beef
• 1 lb. roll breakfast sausage (optional)
• ½ green bell pepper, chopped
• ½ medium onion, diced
• 1 small can tomato sauce
• 1 large egg
• ½ sleeve saltine crackers (or stovetop stuffing—see Easy-Peasy recipe)
• ¼ tsp. each salt and pepper
• Ketchup, for topping
• 4 slices bacon (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the first eight ingredients.
3. Line your cast iron skillet with foil for easy cleanup, then press the mixture into a 2-inch deep round.
4. Top with a generous swirl of ketchup—and bacon, if using.
5. Bake for 1 hour, uncovered.

The tomato sauce keeps it moist, and the skillet gives it that golden edge. It’s rustic, flavorful, and perfect with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies.

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Cast iron skillets aren’t just for pros—they’re for anyone who loves flavor, texture, and timeless cookware. I use mine weekly, and it’s never let me down. [Check out this one] if you’re looking to add one to your kitchen.

Affiliate Disclosure:
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely love and use in my own kitchen. Thanks for supporting Around Dusty Roads and helping me keep the skillet sizzling!