Classic Homemade Meatloaf with Savory Ketchup Glaze Recipe
This classic meatloaf recipe combines ground beef with aromatic herbs, garlic, and a savory homemade sauce for a comforting, hearty meal. Moist and flavorful, the meatloaf is baked to perfection and topped with a tangy ketchup-based glaze that adds a hint of sweetness and zest. Perfect for a family dinner, this recipe pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef, 85% or 80% lean
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 2 large eggs
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Tbsp ketchup
- 3 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
Meatloaf Sauce Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 1 ½ tsp white vinegar
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Prepare the onions: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. This enhances the flavor and sweetness of the onions for the meatloaf mixture.
- Mix the meatloaf ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onions, eggs, minced garlic, ketchup, chopped parsley, Panko breadcrumbs, milk, salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined without overworking the meat to keep it tender.
- Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a loaf pan and shape it into a uniform loaf about 8-9 inches long. This shape ensures even cooking and helps to maintain moisture inside.
- Prepare the sauce glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, white vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce is smooth.
- Apply the glaze: Spread the prepared sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This glaze adds flavor and helps keep the meatloaf moist during baking.
- Bake the meatloaf: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake uncovered for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Rest and serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the slices moist and tender.
Notes
- Using 80-85% lean ground beef balances flavor and moisture; leaner meat can result in a drier meatloaf.
- Sautéing the onions softens their texture and reduces sharpness for a sweeter, more mellow flavor.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked safely but avoid overcooking to maintain juiciness.
- Leftover meatloaf can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Keywords: meatloaf, ground beef meatloaf, classic meatloaf recipe, baked meatloaf, comfort food, family dinner