
Hey, Welcome to the Golden Corral Meatloaf Recipe. Golden Corral Meatloaf is a tender, juicy, and flavor-packed American-style meatloaf served at the famous Golden Corral buffet restaurants.
If you’ve ever had this at a family dinner or a weekend buffet, you already know how comforting and delicious it is.
Guess what happened when I tried to replicate that at home? I nailed it perfectly! Today, I’m going to share the simplest method for preparing this tasty dish in your own kitchen.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: American
Category: Main Dish
History and Origin
Golden Corral popularized classic American comfort foods like meatloaf to provide a homestyle dining experience.
Over the years, this tasty dish became a buffet favorite because of its juicy texture, rich flavor, and nostalgic vibe that many Americans grew up loving.
What does Golden Corral Meatloaf taste like?
It’s savory, moist, and perfectly seasoned with a tangy tomato glaze on top. Each bite is rich and comforting, with balanced flavors of beef, onions, breadcrumbs, and spices.
You’ll instantly feel like you’re eating at your favorite buffet spot.
By the way, you can also try the Wawa Chicken Salad Recipe.
Golden Corral Meatloaf Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients to start making the Best Golden Corral Meatloaf Recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 2 lbs |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Milk | ½ cup |
| Ketchup | ½ cup (plus extra for glaze) |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Garlic Powder | ½ teaspoon |
Equipment Needed
Also, gather the following equipment, as they are necessary to craft your Easy Golden Corral Meatloaf Recipe:
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Baking sheet (optional)
- Oven
How to Make Golden Corral Meatloaf Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the mixture
Add ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings into a bowl. Mix gently until fully combined.
Step 2: Shape the loaf
Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan and press evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 3: Add glaze
Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top to create the signature tangy glaze.
Step 4: Bake
Place the loaf pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 55–60 minutes until cooked through.
Step 5: Rest and serve
Let the meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Recipe Card

Golden Corral Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings into a bowl. Mix gently until fully combined.

- Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan and press evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula.

- Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top to create the signature tangy glaze.

- Place the loaf pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 55–60 minutes until cooked through.

- Let the meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes
Nutritional Information
Below, I have listed the nutritional information for the Golden Corral Meatloaf Recipe:
| Nutrients | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 390 kcal |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Sodium | 620mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Golden Corral Meatloaf with mashed potatoes, green beans, steamed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad.
You can drizzle extra ketchup or brown gravy on top for added comfort and flavor during dinner.
Storage Tips
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for three months, then thaw and reheat whenever you need.
Why I Love Making This at Home
I love cooking this Golden Corral Meatloaf Recipe at home because I can control the flavors, serve it hot from the oven, and enjoy that same buffet-style comfort without waiting in line.
It’s also budget-friendly, filling, and perfect for family dinners.
Variations You Can Try
You don’t have to stick to the classic version every time. Try adding cheese inside, swapping beef with turkey, or mixing in barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
Little changes can give your meatloaf a delicious new personality while keeping it comforting.
Tips for a Perfectly Juicy Meatloaf
Don’t overmix the meat and always include moisture-boosting ingredients like milk, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps keep the juices inside. These tiny steps ensure every bite stays tender, flavorful, and satisfying.
How to Make It Ahead
If you love meal planning, this Golden Corral Meatloaf Recipe is for you. You can prepare the mixture, shape it, and store it in the fridge a day before baking.
This makes cooking easier on busy days while keeping the same delicious Golden Corral quality.
What to Do with Leftovers
Leftover meatloaf is a gift you’ll actually enjoy. Turn slices into sandwiches, crumble it for pasta or tacos, or heat it again for a quick lunch.
It keeps its flavor wonderfully, so nothing goes to waste in your kitchen.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Meatloaf
You can create a complete comfort meal by pairing your meatloaf with mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, or buttery corn.
Classic sides make each slice even more delicious, and you’ll feel like you’re enjoying a full Golden Corral buffet plate at home.
Can I Make It Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Just replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
The taste and texture still stay amazing, and everyone at the table can enjoy this dish without worrying about dietary restrictions or missing out on comforting flavors.
Conclusion
This homemade Golden Corral Meatloaf Recipe brings buffet-style comfort straight to your table. It’s easy, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners your whole family will love.
With these words, we came to the end of this article. Please share this recipe with your loved ones and give it a 5-star rating at the conclusion of the FAQs section if you enjoy it!
Happy Cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I keep the meatloaf moist?
Add enough milk, breadcrumbs, and eggs to keep the texture soft and juicy.
Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works great, but the flavor will be slightly lighter.
Can I add vegetables inside?
Yes, grated carrots or bell peppers add moisture and nutrition.
What makes the glaze shiny?
Ketchup mixed with a little brown sugar creates a glossy finish.
How do I know when meatloaf is done?
It should reach an internal temperature of 160°F using a meat thermometer.
You will also like the Mazzio’s Ranch Dressing Recipe.
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