Here’s an easy and delicious Meatloaf Recipe with the Best Glaze that’s sweet, tangy, and packed with flavor. The glaze is the perfect finishing touch to elevate your meatloaf!
Easy Meatloaf Recipe With The Best Glaze
Ingredients for the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (for the meat mixture)
Ingredients for the Glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, garlic, milk, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon of ketchup. Mix gently until combined, but don’t overwork the mixture to avoid a dense meatloaf.
- Form the Meatloaf:
- Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it in gently and shape the top to create a smooth, even surface.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, and smoked paprika (if using) until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
- Glaze the Meatloaf:
- Pour about half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
- Bake the Meatloaf:
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return it to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through (an internal temperature of 160°F or 71°C).
- Rest and Serve:
- Once done, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Slice and serve with mashed potatoes, vegetables, or your favorite side dish.
Tips
- Moisture: If you want a super moist meatloaf, you can add 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese or a handful of finely grated carrots to the mixture.
- Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked meatloaf (wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil) for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake it directly from frozen, adding extra time.
- For a Flavor Boost: Add finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or fresh herbs to the meat mixture for additional flavor.