Classic Meatloaf with Glaze: Your New Family Favorite

Hello there, food lovers! Today, I’m so excited to share a recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This Classic Meatloaf with Glaze is more than just a meal; it’s a trip down memory lane for me. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone gather around the table, happy and satisfied. Forget those dry, crumbly versions you might have tried. This one is wonderfully moist, packed with flavor, and topped with a glaze that’s simply irresistible. It’s my go-to for busy weeknights and special Sunday dinners alike. Get ready to impress your family with this comforting classic!

Why You’ll Love This Classic Meatloaf with Glaze

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons:

It’s incredibly easy to make.
The sweet and tangy glaze adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
It’s the ultimate comfort food.
Perfect for feeding the whole family.
You likely have most ingredients already!

Lina’s Kitchen Story: A Taste of Tradition

Growing up in Italy, my grandmother’s kitchen was the heart of our home. While she specialized in pasta, she also made a simple, hearty meat dish that always felt so special. It wasn’t exactly meatloaf as we know it here, but the feeling it evoked – that of home-cooked love – is exactly what this Classic Meatloaf with Glaze brings to my table now. I remember the comforting aroma filling the house. That memory inspires me to create dishes that offer similar warmth and connection. This meatloaf recipe captures that essence perfectly. It’s a little slice of my childhood, adapted for your family’s enjoyment.

Gathering Your Ingredients for Classic Meatloaf with Glaze

Before we dive into the magic of making this Classic Meatloaf with Glaze, let’s talk about the stars of the show: our ingredients. Using fresh, quality items makes all the difference. It’s like painting a masterpiece; good supplies lead to a beautiful result. I always try to pick up the freshest ground beef I can find. It really does contribute to that wonderful moisture and flavor we’re aiming for. So, let’s get our shopping list ready!

For the Perfect Classic Meatloaf with Glaze

Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this delicious meal:

2 pounds ground beef (I love using an 80/20 blend for the best flavor and moisture)
1 cup plain breadcrumbs (Panko or regular work great!)
1/2 cup whole milk (adds tenderness)
1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion (for that savory base)
2 large eggs (our binder)
1 teaspoon fine sea salt (enhances all the flavors)
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (just a pinch for warmth)
For the Glaze:
1/2 cup ketchup (the tangy foundation)
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar (for that sweet caramelization)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (adds a nice tang)

Crafting Your Classic Meatloaf with Glaze: Step-by-Step

Now for the fun part! Let’s bring this Classic Meatloaf with Glaze to life. It’s a straightforward process, but a few little tips make all the difference. I always find the kitchen smells amazing during this stage. It’s a real sign that a delicious meal is on its way. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a perfect meatloaf every time.

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large bowl, gently combine your ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, eggs, salt, and pepper. The key here is to mix until just combined. Overmixing can make your meatloaf tough. Think of it like a gentle hug, not a wrestling match! You want everything to be incorporated, nice and even.

Creating the Sweet and Tangy Glaze

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. This creates our signature glaze. It should be smooth and well blended. This sweet and tangy topping is what really makes our Classic Meatloaf with Glaze shine. It bakes up to a beautiful, caramelized finish.

Assembling and Baking Your Classic Meatloaf with Glaze

Shape the meat mixture into a loaf in your baking dish. Make sure it’s a nice, even shape so it bakes uniformly. Then, spread that glorious glaze all over the top. Pop it into your preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for about an hour. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Once it’s done, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This rest time is crucial for keeping it juicy!

Tips for an Unforgettable Classic Meatloaf with Glaze

Want to make your Classic Meatloaf with Glaze truly shine? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that really elevate this dish. It’s all about those little details that make a big difference. These tips are born from many family dinners and lots of happy taste-testing!

Achieving the Best Texture

Remember that gentle mixing I mentioned? It’s vital! Overworking the meat makes it tough. Combine ingredients just until they hold together. This keeps your meatloaf tender and moist. Avoid packing it too tightly in the pan, too!

Glaze Variations and Moisture Boosters

Feeling adventurous? You can totally play with the glaze! A dash of Worcestershire sauce adds a lovely savory note. Or, try a bit of Dijon mustard for a zesty kick. For extra moisture, I sometimes add 1/4 cup of finely diced bell pepper to the meat mix. It adds a subtle sweetness and keeps things wonderfully moist. And don’t be afraid to swap out half the ground beef for ground pork or veal. It adds a different, delicious dimension to your Classic Meatloaf with Glaze!

Serving and Storing Your Delicious Classic Meatloaf with Glaze

Once your Classic Meatloaf with Glaze is out of the oven and has rested, it’s time for the best part: enjoying it! This dish is so versatile. It’s a centerpiece that truly satisfies. Knowing how to serve and store it ensures you can enjoy every last bite. I love making extra just for leftovers!

Perfect Pairings for Classic Meatloaf with Glaze

This meatloaf is fantastic with creamy mashed potatoes. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans are also wonderful. A simple side salad adds a nice fresh contrast. It really is a complete meal with these classic sides.

Storing and Reheating Your Classic Meatloaf with Glaze

Leftovers are a treat! Let the meatloaf cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm slices in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. You can also add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions About Classic Meatloaf with Glaze

Got questions about making the best Classic Meatloaf with Glaze? I’ve got answers! It’s totally normal to have a few queries when trying a new recipe. Let’s clear things up so your meatloaf turns out perfectly. These tips are from my own kitchen adventures!

Can I use a different type of ground meat for this Classic Meatloaf with Glaze?

Absolutely! You can swap out half the ground beef for ground pork or veal. This adds a lovely richness. Chicken or turkey can also work, but they might be a bit drier. Adjust accordingly!

What is the best way to prevent my Classic Meatloaf with Glaze from drying out?

The secret is not to overmix the meat. Also, using an 80/20 ground beef blend helps a lot. Adding a little extra moisture, like finely diced bell pepper or even a tablespoon of sour cream, can also keep it super tender.

How long should I bake my Classic Meatloaf with Glaze?

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about one hour. The most reliable way to know it’s done is by using a meat thermometer. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) in the thickest part.

Estimated Nutritional Information for Classic Meatloaf with Glaze

While every kitchen and ingredient can vary slightly, here’s a general idea of what you can expect in a serving of this Classic Meatloaf with Glaze. These are estimates, of course! We’re looking at around 450 calories per slice. You’ll also find about 25g of fat, 30g of protein, and 20g of carbohydrates. These values can change based on the specific brands you use and portion sizes, but it gives you a good ballpark figure!

Amazing Classic Meatloaf with Glaze Recipe

Author: Lina Kohn
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings
Diet: None

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Description

A comforting classic meatloaf with a sweet and tangy glaze, perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup chopped onion
2 eggs
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze:
1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons vinegar

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar for the glaze.
Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For extra moisture, you can add 1/4 cup of finely diced bell pepper to the meat mixture.
Ensure you don’t overmix the meatloaf ingredients to keep it tender.
You can substitute half of the ground beef with ground pork or veal for a different flavor profile.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 450
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 120mg