Easy Meatloaf Recipe With The Best Glaze Recipe

There's nothing quite as comforting as a slice of homemade meatloaf, topped with a perfectly sweet and tangy glaze. This easy meatloaf recipe is a family classic that's both hearty and satisfying, with minimal effort required to get it on the table.

Growing up, meatloaf nights were always a favorite in our home. My mom would pull together simple ingredients, pop it in the oven, and in no time, the house would be filled with the irresistible aroma of baked beef and that mouthwatering glaze. If you're looking for a foolproof, delicious meatloaf recipe, this one will quickly earn a spot on your regular dinner rotation.

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

Get ready to fall in love with a meatloaf that's easy, flavorful, and guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family.

First, it’s incredibly simple to make. You only need a handful of pantry staples and about 10 minutes of prep time before popping it in the oven. No fuss, no complicated steps—just straightforward, delicious comfort food.

The glaze takes it to the next level. This isn’t just ketchup slathered on top—it’s a perfectly balanced combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that caramelize beautifully as it bakes.

It’s also super versatile. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or piling slices onto sandwiches for leftovers, this meatloaf works with just about anything.

Finally, this recipe is budget-friendly and ideal for feeding a crowd. With ground beef as the star and common ingredients you likely already have, it’s a satisfying dinner that won’t break the bank.

This easy meatloaf recipe has everything you want: juicy meat, bold flavors, and a glaze that steals the show.

Ingredients Notes

This meatloaf recipe keeps things simple with ingredients you likely already have on hand. Each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect meatloaf.

• Ground beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture. The slight fat content ensures the meatloaf stays juicy and tender while baking. If you prefer leaner meat, 85/15 works well too.
• Breadcrumbs: Plain breadcrumbs help bind everything together while absorbing the juices to keep the meatloaf moist. For added flavor, use seasoned breadcrumbs.
• Eggs: Eggs act as the glue that holds the meatloaf together, giving it structure. Don’t skip them!
• Milk: A little milk softens the breadcrumbs, creating a tender and melt-in-your-mouth meatloaf texture.
• Onion and garlic: Freshly minced onion and garlic add savory depth of flavor. If you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder are great substitutes.
• Worcestershire sauce: This secret ingredient adds a rich, umami punch that enhances the overall flavor.
• The glaze: The star of the show is a simple yet flavorful combination of ketchup, brown sugar, and a splash of vinegar. The ketchup provides tang, the brown sugar adds sweetness, and the vinegar balances it all with a hint of acidity.

You won’t need any fancy equipment—just a mixing bowl, a loaf pan, and your oven.

How To Make This Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Making this meatloaf is as easy as mixing, shaping, and baking. Let’s break it down step by step so you can create the perfect loaf every time.

Start by prepping the meat mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, minced onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands or a spoon to mix everything gently. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

Shape the meatloaf. Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a rectangular loaf on a lined baking sheet. Press it together gently, ensuring it holds its shape without being too compacted.

Prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar until smooth. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf, reserving the rest for later. This first layer will caramelize beautifully as the meatloaf bakes.

Bake the meatloaf. Place the meatloaf in a preheated 350°F oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. At the halfway point, pull the meatloaf out and brush on the remaining glaze. Return it to the oven and continue baking until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Let it rest. Once baked, allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This ensures all those flavorful juices are locked in and prevents the loaf from falling apart when cut.

From start to finish, you’ll have dinner on the table in just over an hour—most of that time is hands-off, making it perfect for busy nights.

Storage Options

This meatloaf is just as good the next day, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerate: Once the meatloaf has cooled completely, store slices or the whole loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: To freeze, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating is a breeze. Warm slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat the meatloaf in a 325°F oven, covered with foil, until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Here are a few ways you can switch it up:

• Swap the meat: Use a combination of ground pork and beef for a richer flavor, or try ground turkey for a leaner option. You can even make it vegetarian by using lentils and mushrooms as the base.
• Add veggies: Sneak in finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor. Just sauté them first to avoid adding excess moisture.
• Change the glaze: Mix things up by swapping ketchup for barbecue sauce, or add a dash of hot sauce for a little kick. A honey mustard glaze would also be delicious.
• Use different breadcrumbs: Swap plain breadcrumbs for panko or even crushed crackers for a fun twist on texture.
• Make it cheesy: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the meat mixture or sprinkle cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.

The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make this meatloaf your own.

This easy meatloaf recipe is proof that classic comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With its juicy texture, perfectly sweet and tangy glaze, and endless variations, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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