There's nothing quite like the comforting, savory aroma of a classic meatloaf baking in the oven. This recipe elevates the traditional dish with a perfectly balanced glaze that's sweet, tangy, and irresistibly glossy. Whether you're preparing a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this easy meatloaf is sure to become a household favorite.

I first discovered this recipe on a chilly weeknight when I wanted something hearty but simple to make. Since then, it’s been a go-to comfort food, always earning rave reviews at the dinner table. Let's dive into why this meatloaf deserves a spot in your rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Meatloaf Recipe
Get ready to meet your new favorite comfort food. This easy meatloaf recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s packed with features that make it stand out.
First, it’s unbelievably simple to prepare. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few easy steps, you’ll have dinner ready with minimal fuss.
Second, the glaze is the real showstopper. Combining ketchup, brown sugar, and a touch of vinegar, it strikes the perfect balance between tangy and sweet, creating a caramelized topping you’ll want to lick off the plate.
You’ll also love how versatile this recipe is. You can swap out ingredients to suit your taste or use what you have on hand, making it perfect for those "clean out the fridge" moments.
And finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or hosting a casual dinner, everyone will be reaching for seconds.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this meatloaf lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating the ultimate combination of taste and texture.
- Ground Beef: Opt for an 80/20 blend of ground beef. The fat content keeps the meatloaf moist and flavorful without becoming greasy.
- Breadcrumbs: These act as the binder, ensuring your meatloaf holds together. Panko or traditional breadcrumbs work well, and if you’re gluten-free, crushed gluten-free crackers are a great substitute.
- Eggs: The eggs are essential for binding the meat mixture together, adding moisture and structure.
- Milk: A splash of milk hydrates the breadcrumbs, preventing a dry, crumbly texture.
- Onion and Garlic: Finely diced onion and minced garlic add depth of flavor. Be sure to sauté the onion first for a mellow, sweet taste.
- Ketchup: Used in both the meat mixture and glaze, ketchup provides a tangy sweetness that ties everything together.
- Brown Sugar and Vinegar: These two ingredients in the glaze bring a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, complementing the savory meatloaf beautifully.
Special Equipment: While not required, a meatloaf pan with a drip insert can help drain excess fat during baking for a healthier loaf.
How To Make This Easy Meatloaf

Creating this incredible meatloaf is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these simple steps to perfection:
- Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, sautéed onions, minced garlic, ketchup, and your choice of seasonings. Use clean hands to mix until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense loaf. - Shape and Place in Pan
Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape it by hand into a loaf on a lined baking sheet. Press it gently into shape without compacting it too much. - Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and a splash of vinegar. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. - Bake
Place the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, spread the remaining glaze over the top and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). - Rest and Slice
Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the loaf moist and flavorful.
Storage Options
This meatloaf is fantastic for leftovers, and storing it properly ensures it stays just as tasty.
- Refrigeration: Store leftover slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days. They reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven.
- Freezing: Meatloaf freezes exceptionally well. Wrap individual slices or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. Add a touch of water or extra glaze to keep it moist.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Turkey or Chicken Meatloaf: Swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Adjust cooking time as needed since lean meats cook faster.
- Veggie-Boosted Meatloaf: Add finely shredded carrots or zucchini to the mix for extra nutrition and moisture.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some hot sauce or chili flakes to give your meatloaf a zesty edge.
- Cheesy Center: For a fun twist, stuff the center of the loaf with shredded cheese for a gooey surprise when sliced.
- Herbaceous Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary for a flavor boost.
This easy meatloaf recipe with its unforgettable glaze is sure to earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. Whether you keep it classic or experiment with fun variations, this dish is guaranteed to please. Give it a try tonight – your taste buds will thank you!
PrintEasy Meatloaf Recipe With The Best Glaze Recipe
Discover how to make the most flavorful and juicy easy meatloaf recipe with the best glaze! This classic comfort food features a tangy-sweet glaze that perfectly complements the tender meatloaf. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s ideal for a quick weeknight meal or a family gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Onion (finely chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Milk
- Worcestershire sauce
- Salt
- Pepper
- Ketchup
- Brown sugar
- Mustard
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a loaf pan or baking sheet.
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
- In a small bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard for the glaze. Spread half the glaze over the meatloaf.
- Bake for 45 minutes, then spread the remaining glaze on top and bake for another 15 minutes.
- Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use a mix of ground beef and pork for extra juiciness.
- Ensure the meatloaf rests before slicing to retain moisture.
- For a low-carb version, replace breadcrumbs with almond flour.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx.)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
Leave a Reply