Meatloaf with Sweet Glaze
This Meatloaf with Sweet Glaze is a comforting and flavorful classic dinner with a twist. Juicy ground beef mixed with simple pantry ingredients is topped with a perfectly balanced sweet glaze that adds tang and richness. Easy to prepare and customizable, this meatloaf is perfect for family meals and special occasions alike.
- Author: Nina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free breadcrumbs)
Meatloaf Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 3/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Sweet Glaze Ingredients
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly using your hands or a spoon until evenly combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture onto a lined or greased baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. Compact just enough to hold its shape but keep it light for a tender bite.
- Make the Sweet Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth and well blended. This glaze will caramelize during baking.
- Apply the Glaze and Bake: Brush a generous layer of the sweet glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the meatloaf for 45–60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Halfway through baking, brush on a second layer of glaze for a shiny, sticky finish.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute and keeps each slice moist and flavorful.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onion and garlic enhance flavor more than powdered alternatives.
- Don’t Overmix: Overhandling the meat can make meatloaf tough instead of tender.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked to 160°F (71°C).
- Double the Glaze: Apply glaze twice during baking for maximum flavor and a beautiful finish.
- Rest Before Slicing: Let meatloaf rest to avoid drying out and to keep slices intact.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 6 oz)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: meatloaf, sweet glaze, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, baked meatloaf