The Best Classic Homestyle Meatloaf With A Tangy Glaze Recipe

Crafting a mouthwatering classic homestyle meatloaf with a tangy glaze brings comfort directly to your dinner table.

Generations of home cooks have perfected this hearty dish through simple, loving techniques.

Savory ground beef mingles with soft breadcrumbs and perfectly seasoned herbs.

Onions and garlic create a rich foundation that makes every bite memorable.

A zesty glaze adds a delightful twist to the traditional recipe, balancing sweet and tangy notes.

Families gather around this warm, nostalgic meal that speaks directly to the heart.

Classic Meatloaf with Glaze Ingredient List

• Ground Beef: Classic base meat for hearty meatloaf.

• Breadcrumbs: Helps hold the meatloaf together.
• Egg: Provides structure and binding.

• Onion, Garlic: Adds aromatic depth to the meat mixture.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Provides rich, tangy umami flavor.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasoning for balanced taste.

• Ketchup, Brown Sugar, Mustard: Creates a sweet and tangy topping for the meatloaf.

Homestyle Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Crank up your oven to a cozy 350°F, getting it ready for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base

• Ground beef
• Chopped onion
• Minced garlic
• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Worcestershire sauce
• Ketchup

Dive in with your hands and mix everything until it’s perfectly blended, making sure no ingredient feels left out.

Step 3: Shape and Position the Meatloaf

Gently shape the meat mixture into a beautiful loaf. Nestle it comfortably into a loaf pan, giving it room to cook evenly.

Step 4: Create the Tangy Glaze

• Ketchup
• Brown sugar
• Mustard

Spread this mouthwatering glaze generously over the top of the meatloaf, creating a glossy, irresistible coating.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the meatloaf into the preheated oven and let it bake for about an hour. Check that the internal temperature hits 160°F – this ensures it’s fully cooked and safe to devour.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making each slice incredibly tender and flavorful. Slice and serve up some serious comfort on a plate!

Meatloaf Tips That Keep It Tangy and Moist

• Choose Lean Meat Wisely: Select ground beef with 85-90% lean meat for a juicy yet not greasy meatloaf that holds together perfectly without excess fat.
• Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to prevent a dense, tough texture; use a light hand when combining ingredients to keep the meatloaf tender and moist.
• Check Temperature Accurately: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf reaches 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption while maintaining a succulent interior.
• Boost Flavor Depth: Experiment with adding herbs like fresh parsley or thyme, or include a splash of red wine to enhance the meatloaf's rich, complex taste profile.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the meatloaf sit for 10-15 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice remains moist and flavorful when cut.

How to Keep Classic Homestyle Meatloaf Fresh

• Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days, ensuring the container is sealed tightly to maintain moisture and prevent bacterial growth.
• Wrap individual slices or the entire meatloaf in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months, labeling with the date to track freshness.
• Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Warm at 50% power for 1-2 minutes, checking temperature to ensure even heating.
• Preheat oven to 350°F, place meatloaf slices in a baking dish, add a splash of broth to prevent drying. Cover with foil and warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Homestyle Meatloaf Side Ideas

• Pair Robust Red Wine: Select a medium-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel that complements the rich, meaty flavors and cuts through the tangy glaze.
• Serve Crisp Roasted Vegetables: Prepare roasted Brussels sprouts or glazed carrots with herbs to balance the hearty meatloaf and add a fresh, vibrant side dish that enhances the overall meal.
• Match Classic Comfort Sides: Create a traditional accompaniment with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery mac and cheese that perfectly absorbs the meatloaf's savory juices and provides a comforting texture contrast.
• Complement with Bright Salad: Toss a light mixed green salad with a zesty vinaigrette to introduce a refreshing element that cuts through the meatloaf's richness and adds a crisp, clean finish to the plate.

Homestyle Meatloaf Tangy Glaze Options

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free oats or almond flour to make the meatloaf safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Turkey Meatloaf: Swap ground beef with lean ground turkey for a lighter, lower-fat alternative that's perfect for health-conscious eaters.
• Veggie-Packed Option: Incorporate finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers into the meat mixture to boost nutritional value and add extra moisture.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs and replace brown sugar in the glaze with a sugar-free alternative like erythritol for a keto-friendly version.

FAQs

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. Just ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

• How fine should I chop the onions?

Dice the onions into small, uniform pieces about 1/4 inch in size. This helps them blend seamlessly into the meatloaf mixture without creating large chunks.

• Is it necessary to use Worcestershire sauce?

Worcestershire sauce adds depth and umami flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with soy sauce or skip it. The meatloaf will still taste delicious.

• Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and place it in the loaf pan up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.

Meatloaf That’s Classic with a Glaze You’ll Crave

• Craft Quick Comfort: Whip up this classic meatloaf in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for busy home cooks craving a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Bring Family Together: The familiar flavors and comforting texture make this meatloaf an instant crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults, creating a warm dining experience.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients or adjust the glaze to match your taste preferences, giving you the flexibility to make this recipe uniquely yours while keeping the traditional essence intact.
• Budget-Friendly Delight: Using affordable ingredients like ground beef, breadcrumbs, and pantry staples, this meatloaf offers a delicious meal that won't break the bank.

Classic Homestyle Meatloaf With A Tangy Glaze Recipe

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4.9 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty classic homestyle meatloaf brings comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen with its irresistible blend of ground beef and savory seasonings. Rich glazed top and tender interior promise a satisfying meal that transports you to warm family dinners.

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Ingredients

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Meat and Protein:

• 1 pound (0.45 kilogram) ground beef
• 1 large egg

Vegetable and Aromatics:

• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Binding and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) ketchup (for the meatloaf)

Glaze Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) ketchup (for the glaze)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for the glaze)
• 1 teaspoon mustard (for the glaze)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating it to 350°F (175°C), ensuring an optimal cooking environment for the meatloaf.
2. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine ground beef with finely diced onions, crushed garlic, breadcrumbs, and a beaten egg, creating a harmonious base for the meatloaf.
3. Add Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture, gently folding ingredients until they are evenly distributed and cohesive.
4. Carefully mold the seasoned meat mixture into a compact, uniform loaf shape, transferring it to a prepared loaf pan with precision.
5. Craft a tangy glaze by whisking together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a separate bowl, ensuring a smooth and well-integrated coating.
6. Generously spread the glossy glaze over the surface of the meatloaf, creating an appetizing and flavorful exterior.
7. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for approximately one hour, monitoring until the internal temperature reaches a safe 160°F (70°C).
8. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to rest briefly, enabling the juices to redistribute and ensuring a moist, tender result.
9. Slice the meatloaf into portions and serve hot, showcasing the rich flavors and inviting appearance of this classic comfort dish.

Notes

• Use lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) to reduce excess fat without compromising flavor and juiciness.
• Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to prevent a tough, dense texture; gently combine ingredients until just incorporated.
• Swap breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for a celiac-friendly version.
• Add finely grated vegetables like carrots or zucchini to boost nutrition and maintain moisture in the meatloaf.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 580 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 19 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg