Classic Homestyle Meatloaf with Glaze

There’s nothing quite like a hearty slice of homemade meatloaf to bring comfort and nostalgia to the dinner table. This classic recipe combines flavorful ground beef, a perfectly balanced blend of seasonings, and a sweet-savory glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Serve it with your favorite sides for a meal that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (85% lean)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp dried thyme

For the Glaze

• ⅓ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme. Mix gently until just combined.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

• Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf form, about 2-3 inches tall.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

• In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread half the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Reserve the other half for later

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf

• Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.

Step 6: Add Final Glaze and Finish Baking

• Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches

Step 7: Rest and Serve

• Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. Adjust the seasonings slightly to enhance the flavor.

Q: How do I prevent my meatloaf from drying out?

The milk, egg, and breadcrumbs in this recipe ensure a moist meatloaf. Avoid overmixing the ingredients, which can make the texture dense.

Q: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and shape the meatloaf ahead of time, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.