The Perfect Meatloaf with a Tangy Glaze

This recipe is my go-to for making the perfect meatloaf that has a delightful tangy glaze. Over the years, I have perfected this dish, ensuring that it is both flavorful and easy to prepare. If you’re looking for a comforting meal that pleases the whole family, this is the one. Let’s explore the details!

To start, here are the ingredients you’ll need:

  • 1 ½ pounds of ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1 cup of breadcrumbs
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • ½ teaspoon of black pepper
  • ½ cup of milk

For the tangy glaze, gather the following:

  • ½ cup of ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon of mustard

Now that we have our ingredients ready, I like to start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that my meatloaf cooks evenly from the moment it’s in the oven.

Next, in a large mixing bowl, I combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and milk. Using my hands is usually the best way to mix everything until just combined. It’s important not to overmix, as it can result in a dense texture.

Once I have everything mixed well, I shape the mixture into a loaf and place it into a greased baking dish or a loaf pan. Now, let’s work on that delicious glaze!

In a small bowl, I whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and mustard. This mixture is what makes the meatloaf so special! After making the glaze, I pour it evenly over the top of my meatloaf.

Now it’s time to bake! I pop my meatloaf into the preheated oven and let it cook for about 1 hour. I like to check for doneness by using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C).

When my meatloaf is done, I take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the loaf, ensuring it remains moist. After resting, I slice it up and serve it with my favorite sides.

This meatloaf recipe with a tangy glaze is a true winner in my kitchen. With its savory flavor and the sweetness of the glaze, it’s a dish that is sure to impress. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do!