Classic American Meatloaf with Glaze

A comforting and savory meatloaf, seasoned perfectly and topped with a tangy-sweet glaze, baked to golden perfection. A true American classic.

Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 70 min
Total Time: 85 min
Servings: 4
AmericanNut-FreeShellfish-FreeSesame-FreeHigh-Protein

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lb ground beef, 80/20 chuck recommended
  • 1 large egg
  • 0.5 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 0.25 cup milk
  • 0.5 large yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.5 cup ketchup, for glaze
  • 2 tablespoon light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, for glaze
  • 0.5 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. 1.

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line with parchment paper.

  2. 2.

    In a small bowl, whisk together all the glaze ingredients: 0.5 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 0.5 teaspoon Dijon mustard. Set aside.

  3. 3.

    In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef, 1 large egg, 0.5 cup plain breadcrumbs, 0.25 cup milk, 0.5 large finely diced yellow onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon salt, and 0.5 teaspoon black pepper.

  4. 4.

    Mix just until all ingredients are incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

  5. 5.

    Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Form it into an oblong loaf shape, about 8-9 inches long and 4-5 inches wide.

  6. 6.

    Spread about one-third of the prepared glaze evenly over the top and sides of the meatloaf.

  7. 7.

    Bake for 50 minutes. Then, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread another one-third of the glaze over the top.

  8. 8.

    Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the loaf. The glaze should be bubbly and slightly caramelized.

  9. 9.

    Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful loaf. Serve with the remaining glaze on the side.

Tips

  • 💡Do not overmix the meatloaf mixture; gentle handling keeps it tender and moist.
  • 💡For a less greasy meatloaf, you can form the loaf on a rack placed inside a baking pan, allowing fat to drip away.
  • 💡Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  • 💡Letting the meatloaf rest after baking is crucial for a juicy result. Skipping this step can lead to a dry, crumbly loaf.
  • 💡Finely dicing the onion and garlic ensures they blend seamlessly into the meatloaf texture.

Recipe from TheCookbook.ai

Created by Basil Roux