Classic Homestyle Meatloaf with a Tangy Glaze

There’s something deeply comforting about a homemade meatloaf, especially one that’s been perfected over generations. This Classic Homestyle Meatloaf with a Tangy Glaze is everything you’d expect from a beloved family recipe—tender, flavorful, and topped with a rich, tangy glaze that elevates every bite. Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this dish is sure to hit all the right notes.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This meatloaf is an absolute crowd-pleaser, and I promise it’s anything but boring! The combination of ground beef, finely chopped onions, and savory Worcestershire sauce creates a rich flavor, while the breadcrumb and egg mixture ensures that every slice is perfectly tender. And then there’s that glaze…the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard blend caramelizes into a sweet-tangy topping that’s just irresistible.

Reasons to Love This Recipe:

• Easy to Make: With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this meatloaf comes together in no time.
• Hearty & Comforting: It’s the kind of meal that hugs you back after a long day.
• Family-Friendly: This is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: You can easily make substitutions based on your dietary needs or what you have on hand.

What Does It Taste Like?

Imagine a tender, juicy slice of beef perfectly seasoned with garlic and onion, then topped with a slightly sweet, tangy glaze that’s been caramelized to perfection. Each bite is a balanced combination of savory and sweet, with just a hint of smoky goodness (especially if you sneak a little barbecue sauce into that glaze).

Benefits of This Recipe:

• Nutrient-rich: With protein from the beef (or turkey!) and fiber from the breadcrumbs, it’s both filling and nourishing.
• Make-ahead-friendly: Prepare the meatloaf ahead of time and bake when ready.
• Affordable: Uses budget-friendly ingredients that are probably already in your kitchen!

Ingredients for Classic Homestyle Meatloaf

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and turkey)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup ketchup (for the meatloaf)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup (for the glaze)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for the glaze)
• 1 teaspoon mustard (for the glaze)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Cutting board and knife (for chopping the onion and garlic)
• Loaf pan
• Small bowl (for mixing the glaze)
• Spatula or spoon for spreading the glaze
• Meat thermometer (to ensure the perfect internal temperature)

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

While this recipe is perfect as is, here are some options for those who want to change things up:

• Meat: Swap ground beef with ground turkey or a mixture of both for a leaner version.
• Breadcrumbs: Use panko or crushed crackers if you’re out of regular breadcrumbs.
• Add Veggies: Grate some carrots or zucchini into the meat mixture for added moisture and nutrition.
• Glaze Variations: Try adding a tablespoon of barbecue sauce to the glaze for a smoky twist or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for some tangy depth.

How to Make Classic Homestyle Meatloaf with a Tangy Glaze

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). You want it nice and warm when the meatloaf goes in!

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, finely chopped onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated. I recommend using your hands for this part—it really helps blend everything!

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and shape it into a nice loaf. If you don’t have a loaf pan, don’t worry! You can shape it by hand on a baking sheet, too.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon mustard. Stir until smooth and spread this luscious glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Step 5: Bake

Pop the meatloaf into the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here to make sure it’s cooked perfectly without drying out.

Step 6: Let It Rest

Once the meatloaf is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This step is key to keeping all those juices inside!

What to Serve with Meatloaf

The beauty of this classic homestyle meatloaf is how easily it pairs with sides. For a balanced and satisfying meal, consider serving it with:

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The perfect companion to soak up that glaze!
• Steamed Green Beans: Adds a pop of color and a healthy crunch.
• Buttery Cornbread: For those who love to combine sweet and savory.

Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf

• Don’t Overmix: Overworking the meat can lead to a tough texture, so mix just until everything is combined.
• Resting is Essential: Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to lock in all those juices.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensuring the meat reaches an internal temp of 160°F (70°C) is crucial for food safety and the best texture.

Storage Instructions

This meatloaf keeps wonderfully! Here’s how you can store leftovers:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm up in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and refrigerate it (uncooked) for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze it before baking if you want to plan even further ahead.

What type of beef should I use?

Ground beef with a fat content of around 85% lean to 15% fat works best. This ensures a juicy meatloaf that isn’t too greasy.

Can I skip the glaze?

The glaze adds so much flavor, but if you prefer to skip it, you can. However, I recommend brushing a little ketchup on top to prevent the meatloaf from drying out.

Conclusion: A Classic for a Reason!

This Classic Homestyle Meatloaf with a Tangy Glaze is comfort food at its finest—simple to make, loaded with flavor, and perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re new to making meatloaf or this has been a family favorite for years, it’s bound to impress.

I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you! Don’t forget to leave a review or share your delicious results on Pinterest

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 17g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Sugar: 6g

Make sure to check out these other hearty family favorites:

• Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops – A Decadent Seafood Feast
• No-Fuss Thanksgiving Turkey
• Mongolian Beef Noodles

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