If you’re craving comfort food that hugs you from the inside out, this Easy Meatloaf Recipe with the BEST Glaze Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a classic all-American dish that brings together juicy, seasoned ground beef with a deliciously sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or want to impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of hearty flavors and moist texture every single time. Trust me, once you try this meatloaf, it’ll become your go-to for cozy dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple but essential ingredients come together to create a meatloaf that’s bursting with flavor and perfectly tender. Each item plays a key role—from the rich juiciness of ground beef, to the breadcrumbs that keep everything tender, to the glaze that adds that irresistible finishing touch.
- 2 pounds ground beef: The hearty base of your meatloaf, packed with flavor and protein.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meat and gives the loaf structure without drying it out.
- 1 cup milk: Moisturizes the breadcrumbs, keeping the meatloaf tender.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder, holding the mixture together as it bakes.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a savory punch to balance the richness.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami for a perfect savory kick.
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze): Provides a sweet and tangy base for the glaze that caramelizes beautifully.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for glaze): Adds sweetness and helps create that sticky, glossy finish.
- 1 tablespoon mustard (for glaze): Offers a subtle tang that cuts through the sweetness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Easy Meatloaf Recipe with the BEST Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, either line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking. This step ensures your meatloaf comes out clean and holds its shape beautifully.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. The key is to mix just until everything is blended—not overworking it—so you end up with a tender, juicy meatloaf rather than a dense one.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
Now shape your mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet or press it firmly into your greased loaf pan. This gives your meatloaf its classic form and helps it cook evenly through the center.
Step 4: Prepare and Apply the Glaze
Whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl to create that signature glaze. Spread half of this luscious mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This sweet and tangy glaze is what makes this recipe stand out and gives it that irresistible glossy finish.
Step 5: Bake and Glaze Again
Bake your meatloaf for about 45 minutes, then pull it out to brush the remaining glaze all over the top. Return it to the oven for another 15 to 20 minutes until the internal temperature hits 160°F (70°C). This second glaze application ensures a flavorful, sticky crust that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let your meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making every slice tender and juicy—no one wants a dry meatloaf!
How to Serve Easy Meatloaf Recipe with the BEST Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich meatloaf. If you want a little extra flair, a dollop of creamy mashed potatoes on the side pairs beautifully.
Side Dishes
This meatloaf is a classic that stands up well to traditional sides like mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or roasted carrots. For a lighter balance, serve it with a crisp garden salad or some sautéed spinach to brighten the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Serve slices of this Easy Meatloaf Recipe with the BEST Glaze Recipe open-faced on toasted bread for a hearty sandwich. Or even cube leftover slices for a comforting casserole or hash. The versatility makes it a perfect recipe to enjoy in many mouthwatering forms.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Keeping it well-sealed preserves moisture and flavor for delicious next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze your meatloaf either as a whole or in slices. Wrap it securely in foil and plastic wrap or place it in a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn. It will stay tasty for up to 3 months—a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
Reheating
To reheat, warm slices gently in the microwave or wrap in foil and heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. This method keeps the meatloaf moist and the glaze nice and sticky just like fresh.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and will work well in this recipe. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as turkey can dry out faster. Adding a bit more moisture or oil can help keep it juicy.
What can I use if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
If you’re out of breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats make excellent substitutes and will still bind your meatloaf while adding a slight texture.
Is it okay to prepare the meatloaf mixture the night before?
Yes! You can mix the ingredients, shape the loaf, and refrigerate it overnight. Just wait to add the glaze until you’re ready to bake for best results.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way—your meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) to be safe and perfectly cooked.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Definitely! The glaze can be mixed a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before using to recombine any ingredients.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so wonderfully comforting about a perfectly cooked meatloaf, and this Easy Meatloaf Recipe with the BEST Glaze Recipe truly delivers on all fronts. From the juicy, seasoned meat to the sweet, sticky glaze, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. You owe it to yourself and your loved ones to give this recipe a try—it’s easy to make and bound to become a family favorite in no time!
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Easy Meatloaf Recipe with the BEST Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Easy Meatloaf recipe features a flavorful blend of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and aromatic vegetables, topped with the BEST sweet and tangy glaze. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this meatloaf is baked to juicy perfection and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Glaze
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid a dense meatloaf.
- Shape the Loaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape on the prepared baking sheet or press it firmly into the greased loaf pan for even cooking.
- Prepare and Apply Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread half of this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf to infuse flavor during baking.
- Bake: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. Then, brush on the remaining glaze and continue to bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute for a moist and tender result.
Notes
- Use fresh breadcrumbs or panko for best texture.
- Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps retain juices.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer for food safety.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
