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Classic Homemade Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze

Two thick slices of Classic Homemade Meatloaf topped with a shiny, thick red glaze, served on a white plate.
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Make the ultimate, foolproof American family dinner staple. This recipe delivers a moist and tender meatloaf topped with a simple, tangy glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 cup bread crumbs (plain)
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for the loaf)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed, for glaze)
  • 1/4 cup ketchup (for glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper if forming a free-standing loaf.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the bread crumbs and milk. Let stand for 5 minutes to allow the crumbs to absorb the liquid.
  3. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, 1/2 cup ketchup, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the bread crumb mixture.
  4. Use your hands to gently mix all ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
  5. Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared loaf pan or on the baking sheet.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, 1/4 cup ketchup, and apple cider vinegar to create the glaze.
  7. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  8. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove the loaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
  9. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  10. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This is key for a moist meatloaf recipe.

Notes

  • For an extra moist meatloaf, you can substitute half of the ground beef with ground pork or veal.
  • If you prefer a free-standing loaf instead of using a pan, shape it on a rimmed baking sheet and place a small amount of water in the bottom of the pan to help keep the edges from drying out.
  • This recipe makes a great comfort food dinner staple for leftovers.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://hearthbite.com/classic-homemade-meatloaf-moist-recipe/