Classic Glazed Meatloaf

Classic Glazed Meatloaf

Introduction

Classic Glazed Meatloaf is a staple comfort food, loved for its tender, juicy texture and the sweet, tangy glaze that coats each slice.

This dish brings back memories of home-cooked meals, where simple ingredients come together to create something truly satisfying.

Made with ground meat, breadcrumbs, onions, and spices, this meatloaf is topped with a rich glaze of ketchup, brown sugar, and a hint of mustard for depth and balance.

Baked to perfection, the glaze caramelizes on top, creating a delightful contrast to the moist meat underneath.

Serve this meatloaf with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or even a side salad for a wholesome, hearty meal.

Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and comfort to the table.

Ingredients

To make this Classic Glazed Meatloaf, you will need:

For the Meatloaf:

1 1/2 pounds of ground beef (preferably 80/20 for a juicy texture)

1/2 cup of breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)

1/2 cup of milk

1/2 cup of finely chopped onion

1 large egg

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon of salt

1/2 teaspoon of black pepper

1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional, for added flavor)

For the Glaze:

1/3 cup of ketchup

2 tablespoons of brown sugar

1 teaspoon of yellow mustard (optional, for a tangy twist)

1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar (optional, for extra depth)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, or use a loaf pan to shape the meatloaf if you prefer a more traditional form.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning.
2. Mix everything together gently using your hands or a wooden spoon until well combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb the moisture, which helps keep the meatloaf tender.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

1. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide, if using a baking sheet.
2. Smooth the top and sides of the loaf with a spatula for even baking.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

1. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until smooth and well combined.
2. Brush half of the glaze mixture over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf

1. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
2. After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the remaining glaze over the top. This second layer will create a sticky, caramelized finish.
3. Return the meatloaf to the oven and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). This ensures the meat is fully cooked while remaining moist.

Step 6: Rest the Meatloaf

1. Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meatloaf easier to slice without falling apart.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

1. Transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board and slice it into thick pieces.
2. Serve the meatloaf slices with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a crisp salad.

Conclusion

This Classic Glazed Meatloaf is a deliciously comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

The tender, juicy meat is complemented by a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes to perfection in the oven.

Simple yet full of flavor, this meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite.

Serve it with traditional sides or get creative with roasted vegetables, creamy mac and cheese, or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Leftovers can be sliced and enjoyed in sandwiches, or even reheated for a quick meal later.

Enjoy the warm, homey flavors of this classic dish and make it a regular feature on your dinner table!