Meatloaf

When the aroma of a savory meatloaf wafts through the kitchen, it evokes memories of cozy family dinners and comforting meals. This recipe for meatloaf combines ground beef and a flavorful mix of ingredients that makes for a hearty dinner, ready in just over an hour. What makes this recipe stand out is the sweet and tangy glaze that complements the rich flavors of the meat.

This classic dish is perfect for families, weeknight dinners, or meal prep. It’s a crowd-pleaser that warms the heart and fills the belly. If you have leftovers, meatloaf stores beautifully, keeping well in the fridge for tasty sandwiches the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The glaze adds a sweet and tangy layer of flavor.
• Ground beef creates a moist, tender texture.
• It easily feeds a family, making it great for leftovers.
• Preparation is straightforward, with minimal cleanup afterward.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious meatloaf:

For the Meatloaf

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

For best results, use lean ground beef.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ground turkey can replace ground beef.
• Use oat flour instead of breadcrumbs.
• Any milk can substitute for regular milk.
• Maple syrup can replace brown sugar.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to prepare your meatloaf.

Preheat

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, 1/4 cup ketchup, egg, salt, and black pepper.

Shape

Mix until well combined and form into a loaf shape.

Place

Place the meatloaf in a baking dish.

Prepare Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce for the glaze.

Spread

Spread the glaze over the meatloaf.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Rest

Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: 3 to 4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Avoid over-mixing the meat to keep it tender.
• Let the meatloaf rest before slicing for better moisture retention.
• Use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness.
• Experiment with adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic meal.
• Pair with a side salad for a lighter option.
• Perfect for sandwiches the next day, topped with extra ketchup.