Glazed Meatloaf Recipe

Are you looking for a mouthwatering dinner idea that’s both comforting and satisfying? If so, you’ve landed in the right place! This guide to glazed meatloaf is precisely what you need. Designed for busy families and beginner cooks alike, this recipe makes a classic dish that’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and sure to impress at the dinner table.

But wait—what exactly makes this glazed meatloaf stand out? Picture this: a perfectly baked meatloaf coated with a sweet and savory glaze that not only elevates the flavor but also seals in moisture, making your meatloaf tender and juicy. Ready to learn more? Let’s dive into the world of glazed meatloaf, and I promise you won’t regret it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Glazed meatloaf has been a beloved staple in homes across America for generations, and for good reason! This recipe is easy, time-saving, and affordable, making it the perfect choice for those on a budget or with a busy lifestyle. Moreover, the juicy texture and rich flavors are sure to delight family members of all ages.

Imagine coming home after a long day, and in just an hour, you have a comforting dish that wraps everybody in warm, savory goodness. Plus, it’s beginner-friendly: with clear instructions and easy-to-find ingredients, anyone can whip this up!

Ingredients

To make this scrumptious glazed meatloaf, gather the following main ingredients. This ensures that you’ll have everything needed for success:

• Ground beef (or turkey): The main event; choose lean for a healthier dish.
• Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatloaf, creating a pleasing texture.
• Milk: Adds moisture and richness, essential for flavor.
• Egg: The binding agent that holds everything together.
• Ketchup: Adds tanginess and sweetness, crucial for the glaze.
• Onion (finely chopped): Provides aromatic depth.
• Worcestershire sauce: Infuses umami flavor, elevating the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance flavor.

Additional Ingredients for Glaze

• Brown sugar: Offers a sweet crunch that caramelizes beautifully.
• Additional ketchup: For that perfect glossy finish.

Equipment

Having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s a list of essential equipment:

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl for mixing all the ingredients.
• Loaf pan: Keeps the meatloaf in shape during baking.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures perfectly cooked meatloaf, avoiding undercooking or overcooking.
• Oven: The primary cooking apparatus that everyone has in their kitchen.

Tip: A stand mixer can be handy for blending ingredients if you want to save time!

Step-by-Step Process

Ready to create your glazed meatloaf masterpiece? Follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it warmed up while you prepare your meatloaf.

2. Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Ground beef
• Breadcrumbs
• Milk
• Egg
• Chopped onion
• Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper

Mix well until everything is combined, being careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough texture.

3. Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture into your loaf pan. Use your hands to shape it into a loaf, ensuring it’s even throughout.

4. Prepare the Glaze

In a separate bowl, mix:

• Ketchup
• Brown sugar

Spread this glaze generously over the top of the meatloaf.

5. Bake

Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for about 1 hour or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).

6. Rest and Serve

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a juicier slice.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

• Avoid Dry Meatloaf: Ensure you use a good fat content in your ground beef, a mix of lean and fatty cuts works best.
• Flavor Boost: For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture.
• Sticking to the Pan: Line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

If it doesn’t hold together, excess moisture might be the culprit—check your ingredient ratios!

Serving Suggestions

Looking to elevate your meal? Here are some creative ways to serve glazed meatloaf:

• Pair with mashed potatoes: The creamy texture is a classic match.
• Serve with steamed veggies: Adds a nutritious side that brightens the plate.
• Create meatloaf sandwiches: Perfect for leftovers, just slice and layer with your favorite bread and condiments!

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices for up to 3 months. An ideal make-ahead meal for busy days!

Nutrition

Here’s why this glazed meatloaf deserves a spot on your dinner table:

• Protein-Packed: Ground beef provides a good source of protein essential for muscle health.
• Iron-Rich: Beef is notable for its iron content, aiding in oxygen transport and energy levels.
• Budget-Friendly: This recipe typically costs less than $15 to make, serving 6.

FAQs

1. How do I know when my meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C).

2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative but may require careful handling to prevent dryness.

3. What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

You can substitute breadcrumbs with oatmeal or crushed crackers.

4. How should I reheat leftovers?

Microwave slices for a quick reheating, or place them in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes.

5. Can I make meatloaf without eggs?

Yes! You can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as a binding agent.

Conclusion

To sum it up, this glazed meatloaf is a delicious, comforting meal that’s surprisingly simple to make. Not only does it provide essential nutrients and value, but it also brings families together around the dinner table. So why wait? Try this recipe today and feel free to share your thoughts or ask questions in the comments below! For more delicious recipes, check out our blog’s collection of easy dinners.

Glazed Meatloaf

This glazed meatloaf is a comforting and satisfying dinner option, featuring a sweet and savory glaze that guarantees a tender, juicy result.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds Ground beef (or turkey) Choose lean for a healthier dish.
• 1 cup Breadcrumbs Helps bind the meatloaf.
• 1/2 cup Milk Adds moisture and richness.
• 1 large Egg The binding agent.
• 1 cup Ketchup For tanginess and sweetness in the glaze.
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped Provides aromatic depth.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce Infuses umami flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Salt Basic seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon Pepper Basic seasoning.

Glaze Ingredients

• 1/4 cup Brown sugar Offers a sweet crunch.
• 1/4 cup Additional ketchup For a glossy finish.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well but avoid overmixing.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the ketchup and brown sugar to prepare the glaze, then spread it over the meatloaf.

Baking

1. Bake the meatloaf in the oven for about 1 hour or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
2. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic powder or Italian seasoning into the mixture. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.