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Classic Comforting Meatloaf Recipe with Sweet Tangy Glaze

classic comforting meatloaf - featured image

A warm, homey meatloaf with a sweet tangy glaze that delivers comforting flavors and a perfect golden crust. Easy to make and perfect for cozy dinners or crowd-pleasing meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 for best flavor and juiciness)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • ⅓ cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon or yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Prepare the glaze by whisking together ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, milk, chopped parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly.
  4. Shape the meat mixture evenly into the prepared loaf pan or form a loaf on a rimmed baking sheet.
  5. Brush about two-thirds of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
  6. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove from oven and brush the remaining glaze over the top.
  7. Return to oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  8. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to avoid a dense meatloaf. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Rest the meatloaf for 10 minutes before slicing. Tent with foil if glaze browns too quickly. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for beef.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, comfort food, sweet tangy glaze, easy dinner, ground beef, classic recipe