Homemade meatloaf is a nostalgic comfort food that brings families together around the dinner table. This recipe takes a classic approach, blending ground beef with simple pantry staples and topping it with a tangy-sweet glaze. Moist, flavorful, and easy to prepare, this meatloaf is perfect for weeknight meals or meal prepping. Plus, the leftovers make for unbeatable meatloaf sandwiches!
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (85% lean)
- ½ pound ground pork (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Preparation
Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a loaf pan.
Mix the Meatloaf
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Mix gently with your hands until the ingredients are evenly combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
Shape the Meatloaf
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape into a loaf about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide.
Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
Bake the Meatloaf
- Brush half of the glaze evenly over the top and sides of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes. Remove from the oven and brush with the remaining glaze.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (70°C).
Rest and Serve
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps lock in the juices.
Variations
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture for a kick.
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Mix in ½ cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or rolled oats as a substitute.
Cooking Note
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the meatloaf mixture and glaze up to a day ahead. Store covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
- Even Cooking: Use a baking sheet instead of a loaf pan for more evenly cooked edges.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your homemade meatloaf with these classic sides:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Roasted green beans or carrots
- Buttered corn or peas
- A fresh garden salad
Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked to the perfect temperature without drying out.
- For an extra glossy glaze, broil the meatloaf for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking.
- Leftover slices are perfect for reheating or making hearty sandwiches.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sodium: 710mg
FAQs
Can I freeze meatloaf?
A: Yes! Wrap the uncooked meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
Can I substitute the ground pork?
A: Absolutely! You can use all ground beef or substitute with ground turkey for a leaner version.
How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
Homemade meatloaf with glaze is a timeless dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and full of nostalgic charm. This recipe keeps things simple while delivering big on flavor, thanks to the tangy-sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a meal prep staple, this meatloaf is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!