Classic Glazed Meatloaf: A Comforting Family Favorite

Published: March 19, 2025

by Grace

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Classic Glazed Meatloaf is easy to prepare, even for novice cooks.
Its flavor profile combines sweet and savory elements that please any palate.
With its inviting appearance, it’s sure to impress guests at any gathering.
Plus, it’s versatile enough for leftovers or packed lunches!

Ingredients for Classic Glazed Meatloaf

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance between flavor and tenderness.
Breadcrumbs: These keep your meatloaf moist; try using plain or Italian-seasoned varieties for added flavor.
Eggs: Two large eggs help bind the ingredients together for a cohesive loaf.
Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness and moisture; sauté them first for extra flavor.
Ketchup: This makes up the main part of our glaze—choose your favorite brand!

For the Sauce: For more inspiration, check out this Homemade Big Mac Sauce recipe.

Brown Sugar: A touch of brown sugar gives our glaze its irresistible sweetness.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth and umami; don’t skip it!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make Classic Glazed Meatloaf

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Sauté Your Onions

In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté one diced onion until translucent. This step may take about five minutes but trust me—it’s worth it!

Step 3: Mix It Up

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, sautéed onions, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands (yes, dive right in) to mix everything until just combined—don’t overwork it!

Step 4: Form Your Loaf

Transfer this mixture into your prepared loaf pan. Gently shape it into a loaf form because nobody likes an ugly meatloaf!

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix ketchup with brown sugar until smooth. Spread this luscious glaze over the top of your meatloaf.

Step 6: Bake Away

Slide that beauty into the oven and bake for about an hour or until cooked through (you should hit an internal temperature of about 160°F/70°C).

Once finished baking, let it rest for about ten minutes before slicing—this helps keep all those juices locked inside!

Serve this Classic Glazed Meatloaf with mashed potatoes or steamed veggies for a complete meal that will have everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy every delicious bite as you relish not only its taste but also those warm memories that come flooding back with each forkful.

You Must Know

This classic glazed meatloaf recipe offers more than just nostalgia; it delivers comfort food at its finest.
With a mouthwatering glaze and tender texture, it’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests.
Plus, it’s easy to whip up any night of the week!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven while mixing the meatloaf ingredients. Shape the loaf, then prepare your glaze. Bake until cooked through, ensuring a juicy interior while achieving that caramelized topping. This sequence guarantees a deliciously satisfying classic glazed meatloaf every time.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your classic glazed meatloaf by incorporating different seasonings or veggies like bell peppers or onions. You can also swap out ground beef for turkey or a meat blend if you’re feeling adventurous. The possibilities are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover classic glazed meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, slice and warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring you maintain that delicious glaze.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For the best flavor, use a mix of meats like beef and pork for your classic glazed meatloaf.
Don’t skip resting before slicing; it helps retain juiciness.
Finally, experiment with glazes—barbecue sauce adds a fun twist!

Sometimes I think my family loves this classic glazed meatloaf more than me! The way they devour it reminds me of those cozy nights spent around the dinner table sharing stories and laughter—priceless memories!

FAQs:

What is Classic Glazed Meatloaf?

Classic Glazed Meatloaf is a traditional dish made from ground meat, typically beef, combined with breadcrumbs, eggs, and various seasonings. It is shaped into a loaf and baked in the oven. The glaze, often made from ketchup or a mixture of sauces, adds flavor and moisture to the meatloaf. vegetable lentil loaf alternative This comforting dish is popular for family dinners and can be served with mashed potatoes or vegetables. For more inspiration, check out this Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe recipe.

How long does it take to cook Classic Glazed Meatloaf?

Cooking Classic Glazed Meatloaf generally takes about 1 hour in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). The cooking time may vary based on the size of the meatloaf and your oven’s performance. It’s essential to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption. Allowing it to rest before slicing helps retain its juices.

Can I make Classic Glazed Meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Classic Glazed Meatloaf ahead of time. You can assemble the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf, then cover it tightly and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Alternatively, you can bake it and store leftovers in the refrigerator for several days or freeze portions for future meals.

What can I serve with Classic Glazed Meatloaf?

Classic Glazed Meatloaf pairs well with a variety of sides. Popular choices include creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or green beans sautéed in garlic. delicious roasted garlic potatoes You might also consider serving it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. These accompaniments enhance the overall dining experience.

Conclusion for Classic Glazed Meatloaf:

Classic Glazed Meatloaf is an enduring favorite that brings warmth to any dinner table. Its savory flavors combined with a sweet glaze create a delightful dish that everyone loves. Preparing this meal ahead of time enhances its convenience without sacrificing taste. With proper cooking techniques and thoughtful side dishes, Classic Glazed Meatloaf becomes not just food but a cherished family tradition. Enjoy this classic recipe any day of the week!

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📖 Recipe Card