Easy Meatloaf Recipe With The Best Glaze Recipe

There's nothing more comforting than a slice of perfectly cooked meatloaf, topped with a sweet and tangy glaze that practically melts in your mouth. This easy meatloaf recipe is not only a classic family favorite but also simple to make, even on a busy weeknight.

I remember the first time I made this recipe; I was experimenting with ways to elevate my mom's traditional version. After a few tweaks, the result was a moist, flavorful loaf topped with the most irresistible glaze. It quickly became a staple in my kitchen, and I'm thrilled to share it with you today. Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Easy Meatloaf Recipe With The Best Glaze

Get ready to discover a new go-to recipe that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. This meatloaf is an absolute winner for so many reasons.

First, it's incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of pantry staples and a little mixing, you'll have dinner prepped in no time. It's perfect for those nights when you're craving something hearty but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen.

The flavor is out of this world. The combination of ground beef, savory seasonings, and the sweet, tangy glaze creates a mouthwatering balance that's truly unbeatable.

It’s also budget-friendly and versatile. Whether you're feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers plenty of portions without breaking the bank. Plus, it's a great way to use up any ingredients you already have in your pantry.

Finally, this meatloaf reheats beautifully. That means leftovers taste just as good (if not better) the next day – perfect for lunches or quick dinners.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this meatloaf recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient has been carefully chosen to create a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ground beef forms the base of this recipe. For the best results, use an 80/20 blend. The fat content keeps the meatloaf moist and flavorful while still holding its shape.

Breadcrumbs are key to achieving the perfect texture. They absorb moisture, ensuring the loaf stays tender without falling apart. If you're gluten-free, you can substitute with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Eggs act as a binder, helping everything hold together. Make sure they're whisked before adding to the mixture to distribute evenly.

Onions and garlic add depth of flavor. Finely dice the onion so it cooks through properly, and mince the garlic to ensure it blends seamlessly into the mix.

The glaze is the star of this recipe. A combination of ketchup, brown sugar, and a splash of vinegar creates a perfectly balanced topping that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. It’s the ultimate finishing touch.

You’ll also need a loaf pan to shape the meatloaf and a mixing bowl for combining the ingredients.

How To Make This Easy Meatloaf Recipe With The Best Glaze

Creating this delicious meatloaf is as simple as mixing, shaping, and baking. Follow these steps for guaranteed success.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing your loaf pan. This ensures the meatloaf won't stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

In a large mixing bowl, combine your ground beef, breadcrumbs, whisked eggs, diced onion, minced garlic, and seasonings. Use clean hands or a spoon to mix everything just until combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the meatloaf tough.

Transfer the mixture into your prepared loaf pan, pressing gently to shape it into an even layer. Be sure not to pack it too tightly, as this can affect the texture.

In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar to create the glaze. Spread half of it evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This layer will infuse the meat with flavor as it bakes.

Bake the meatloaf for about 50 minutes, then remove it from the oven and spread the remaining glaze on top. Return it to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing – this helps the juices redistribute for a moist, tender slice.

Storage Options

This meatloaf is just as delightful the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

For longer storage, slice the meatloaf and wrap individual portions in plastic wrap or foil. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to three months.

To reheat, thaw frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight. Warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to customize it to your tastes and dietary needs.

For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Just note that these meats tend to be drier, so you might want to add an extra egg or a tablespoon of olive oil to keep the loaf moist.

If you prefer a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke to the mixture.

Vegetables like shredded carrots or zucchini can be mixed in for added nutrition and moisture. Just be sure to squeeze out any excess liquid before adding them to the meat mixture.

For a gluten-free version, swap the breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives or use rolled oats.

Finally, experiment with the glaze. Try adding a pinch of chili powder for heat or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra depth of flavor.

This meatloaf recipe is your canvas – feel free to make it your own!

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