Classic Meatloaf with Sweet and Tangy Glaze Recipe
This classic meatloaf recipe features a moist and flavorful blend of ground beef, sautéed onions, and herbs, topped with a sweet and tangy ketchup-based glaze. Perfectly paired with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted broccoli, this comforting dish is an easy family favorite that yields 8 hearty servings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef, 85% or 80% lean
- 1 medium onion (about 1 cup), finely chopped
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 2 large eggs
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Tbsp ketchup
- 3 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
Meatloaf Sauce Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 1 1/2 tsp white vinegar
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to make cleanup easier.
- Sauté Onions: Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and add 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden, about 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer cooked onions to a plate to cool slightly.
- Make the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onions, eggs, minced garlic, ketchup, fresh parsley, breadcrumbs, milk, salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Mix gently using your hands or a spoon just until everything is evenly combined – avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape Meatloaf and Bake: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf about 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 3 inches tall. Bake uncovered for 40 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: While the meatloaf bakes, combine ketchup, white vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl and stir to blend well.
- Add the Glaze: After the initial 40 minutes of baking, spread the prepared sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring easy slicing and juicy servings.
Notes
- Meat Variations: You can substitute half of the beef with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or Italian sausage. If using poultry, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
- Do Not Overmix: Mix the meat mixture just until combined to avoid a dense meatloaf texture.
- Baking in a Loaf Pan: Line a loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Press the meat mixture gently into the pan and bake at 375°F. The baking time may be longer, so watch for doneness.
Keywords: meatloaf, classic meatloaf, ground beef recipe, baked meatloaf, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal
