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The Best Classic, Juicy Meatloaf with a Copycat Zesty Glaze

A thick slice of juicy meatloaf topped with a shiny, red glaze, sitting next to the rest of the loaf on a white plate.
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Make this classic meatloaf recipe for a tender, juicy, family favorite dinner. This recipe delivers the best meatloaf with a simple, zesty ketchup glaze, perfect for an easy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (or Stove Top Stuffing mix for flavor)
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup ketchup (for the mix)
  • For the Glaze:
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or prepare a baking sheet if forming a free-standing loaf.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let stand for 5 minutes to soften the breadcrumbs.
  3. Add the ground beef, egg, onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and the 1/4 cup of ketchup to the bowl.
  4. Mix all ingredients gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make your meatloaf tough.
  5. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared loaf pan or on the baking sheet.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the glaze ingredients: 1/2 cup ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
  7. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  8. Bake for 45 minutes.
  9. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
  10. Return to the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
  11. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps keep the meatloaf juicy.

Notes

  • For an extra tender meatloaf, use a mix of ground beef and ground pork.
  • If you prefer a free-standing meatloaf, form it on a foil-lined baking sheet instead of using a loaf pan. This allows fat to drain away.
  • This meatloaf reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishcraze.com/best-juicy-meatloaf-secret-glaze-trick/