Easy Meatloaf Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful meal that everyone in your family will love, then look no further than this Easy Meatloaf Recipe with the BEST Glaze. This dish combines simple ingredients, a quick preparation time, and a glaze that takes it to the next level. Meatloaf is an American classic, and when paired with a tangy, sweet glaze, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion.

For even more meal prep inspiration, you can check out this easy meal prep guide. It includes a variety of dishes that pair perfectly with your meatloaf and offer plenty of tips on making meals in advance.

Introduction

Meatloaf is one of those dishes that has stood the test of time. From family dinners to gatherings with friends, this comfort food remains a staple in kitchens across the country. The best part? It’s incredibly customizable based on what you have in your pantry. The beauty of this recipe lies in the moist, tender meatloaf and the sweet and savory glaze that ties everything together.

If you’ve ever struggled with dry meatloaf or lackluster flavor, fear not! This recipe guarantees moisture, flavor, and a perfect balance of savory and sweet in each bite.

For more tips on perfecting your meatloaf, including secrets to a great glaze, check out this helpful meatloaf cooking guide.

Ingredients for the Best Meatloaf

Before we dive into the preparation, let’s gather all the essential ingredients for the perfect meatloaf. The key to a great meatloaf is the combination of ingredients that contribute to flavor and texture.

Meatloaf Ingredients:

• Ground beef (80% lean, for the right amount of fat and juiciness)
• Breadcrumbs (these help to bind the meat and add moisture)
• Eggs (they act as the binder to keep the loaf together)
• Seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper (these enhance the flavor)
• Optional: chopped onions, bell peppers, herbs like parsley or thyme for added depth of flavor

Glaze Ingredients:

• Ketchup (the base of the glaze that adds sweetness)
• Brown sugar (for added sweetness and caramelization)
• Worcestershire sauce (adds a deep, umami flavor)
• Mustard (for a slight tanginess)
• Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, or chili flakes (to kick up the flavor)

This list includes the essentials, but feel free to experiment with other ingredients like cheese, hot sauce, or even mayo for the glaze. If you’re interested in some creative ways to make your meatloaf healthier, check out this meatloaf modification guide to discover healthier alternatives for your ingredients.

How to Make the Perfect Meatloaf

 Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Soak the breadcrumbs in a little milk to add moisture. This simple trick is one of the secrets to a juicy meatloaf.
2. Mix the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings together. It’s best to use your hands for this part, but make sure not to overmix, as that can lead to a dense loaf.
3. Add optional ingredients such as finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or even spinach for an extra burst of flavor.

Make sure the mixture is well combined but not overworked. Overmixing can cause the loaf to be tough and dry.

Form and Bake the Meatloaf

1. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or use a loaf pan for a more uniform shape.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the meatloaf for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). This is the perfect temperature to ensure that the meatloaf is fully cooked but still juicy.
3. Rest the meatloaf for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps redistribute the juices so your meatloaf stays moist and flavorful.

For optimal results, ensure the meatloaf is slightly golden on the outside and completely cooked through on the inside.

The Best Meatloaf Glaze

Now, the magic happens with the glaze! The right glaze can transform your meatloaf from good to great, adding an irresistible tangy-sweet finish. Here’s how to make the best glaze.

How to Make the Glaze:

1. Combine ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Simmer the mixture for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the glaze to thicken and the flavors to combine.
3. Apply the glaze halfway through the cooking time (after about 30 minutes), or during the last 10 minutes of baking. This ensures that the glaze caramelizes and sticks to the meatloaf.

You can adjust the glaze to suit your taste by adding more sugar for sweetness or more Worcestershire sauce for depth.

Serving Your Meatloaf

Now that your meatloaf is done and glazed, it’s time to serve! Here are some excellent side dishes that pair perfectly with your meatloaf.

Perfect Side Dishes:

• Mashed potatoes (creamy, buttery, and perfect for soaking up the meatloaf juices)
• Roasted vegetables (carrots, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes work wonderfully)
• Green beans (steamed or sautéed with garlic and almonds)
• Fresh salad (a crisp, tangy caesar or coleslaw complements the richness of the meatloaf)
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls (to mop up the delicious glaze)

Leftover Ideas:

• Turn any leftover meatloaf into a hearty sandwich with a slice of cheese and some lettuce.
• Use it in a wrap or crumble it into a salad for a quick lunch.
• Reinvent the leftovers as meatloaf tacos or a meatloaf hash with potatoes and veggies.

Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf

Make It Ahead of Time

• You can prepare the meatloaf in advance and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. This will save you time on cooking day and allow the flavors to meld together even more.
• If you want to keep a meatloaf stash for busy weeks, make a double batch and freeze the uncooked loaf for future meals.

Healthier Modifications

If you’re looking for a healthier version of this comfort food:

• Use lean ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for ground beef. You might need to add a little more moisture since turkey can be drier than beef.
• Add grated vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms into the meat mixture for extra fiber and nutrients.
• Opt for whole wheat breadcrumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs if you’re looking to make the recipe a bit healthier.

Flavor Enhancements

• Experiment with spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or Italian seasoning to add a new twist to the flavor profile.
• You can even stuff the meatloaf with cheese (cheddar, mozzarella) or sautéed mushrooms for an unexpected surprise inside.
• For a spicier version, mix in some jalapeños or chili flakes into the glaze for a nice kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my meatloaf dry?

If your meatloaf is dry, it could be due to several factors:

• Overcooking – use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and avoid overcooking.
• Using lean meat – try using a fattier blend of meat, like 80% ground beef, for a juicier loaf.
• Not enough moisture – consider adding more milk or tomato paste to the mix to keep it moist.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! You can swap out ground beef for other meats like:

• Ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Pork or a blend of pork and beef for a richer flavor.

You may need to adjust the seasonings and moisture content to suit the meat you’re using.

How can I make the glaze spicier?

To give your glaze a spicy kick:

• Add hot sauce or chili flakes to taste.
• Mix in finely chopped jalapeños or chipotle peppers for a smokier heat.

Can I bake the meatloaf in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake the meatloaf ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat:

• Cover with foil and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes until heated through.

Is it necessary to let the meatloaf rest before slicing?

Yes! Letting the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes after baking is key to keeping it moist. This helps redistribute the juices, preventing them from running out when you slice.

Conclusion

This Easy Meatloaf Recipe with the BEST Glaze is the perfect combination of tender meat and sweet-savory glaze. Whether you’re looking to make a meal for your family or a hearty dinner for guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can create a meal that’s both comforting and delicious.

Easy Meatloaf Recipe with the BEST Glaze

---

• Author: iyma hernandes
• Total Time: 70 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A classic, comforting meatloaf recipe with a flavorful, sweet-savory glaze that’s easy to make and perfect for any meal.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80% lean)
• 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped onions (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (optional)

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp mustard

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Soak breadcrumbs in milk for a few minutes.
3. In a bowl, mix ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, eggs, seasonings, and optional veggies.
4. Shape into a loaf and place on a lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. For the glaze, mix ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard in a saucepan. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
7. Brush the glaze onto the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking.
8. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For a healthier option, use ground turkey or add grated vegetables like zucchini for extra moisture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 portion
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: meatloaf, comfort food, beef, glaze, easy dinner