Meatloaf Recipe with the Best Glaze

There’s something incredibly nostalgic about a well-made meatloaf. It’s the kind of dish that brings back memories of family dinners, cozy kitchens, and second helpings. But what really takes it from good to unforgettable is the glaze. Sweet, tangy, and just a little sticky, the right glaze transforms this humble dish into something special.

The base of a great meatloaf is simple, ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. It’s the kind of recipe that welcomes small twists, like adding chopped onions, garlic, or even a bit of grated carrot for moisture and flavor. Some like to use a mix of beef and pork for a richer taste, while others stick with classic ground beef. Whatever your preference, the real star comes at the end.

The glaze is where the magic happens. A mix of ketchup, brown sugar, and a splash of vinegar creates a glossy topping that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. It adds a burst of flavor that complements the savory loaf underneath without overpowering it. Some versions throw in a bit of mustard or Worcestershire sauce for extra depth. The goal is balance – sweet, tangy, and full of character.

As the meatloaf bakes, the glaze forms a shiny, flavorful crust that locks in moisture and gives you that crave-worthy finish. The aroma that fills the kitchen is reason enough to make it. It smells like home, like comfort, like something you want to eat slowly and savor.

Serve it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad, and you’ve got a complete meal that satisfies on every level. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works just as well for weeknight dinners as it does for a casual get-together.

This meatloaf isn’t trendy or fancy, and that’s exactly the point. It’s reliable, delicious, and the kind of food people actually want to eat. With the right glaze, it becomes more than just a meal, it becomes a tradition.

Meatloaf Recipe with the Best Glaze

3.56 from 85 votes

Enjoy a classic meatloaf recipe topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. Perfectly moist and flavorful, this meatloaf will quickly become a family favorite.

Servings 6 people

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins

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Ingredients

  

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• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 egg beaten
• 1 onion small, finely chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, egg, onion, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until well combined.
• Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
• In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to create the glaze.
• Spread the glaze evenly over the meatloaf.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
• Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 19gProtein: 18gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 660mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 3IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 15mg

Calories: 290kcal

Meal Type: Lunch

Cuisine: American

Keyword: cooking, meatloaf, recipe

Cooking Method: Baked

Time: >45 Min

Level: Easy

Tried this recipe?Mention @coolinarco or tag #coolinarco!

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