Classic Comfort Glazed Meatloaf

 Description

Classic Comfort Glazed Meatloaf is a timeless family favorite made with juicy seasoned ground beef, breadcrumbs, onions, and a rich sweet-and-savory glaze baked until caramelized and tender. This hearty comfort dish is packed with homestyle flavor and pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or mac and cheese. Moist on the inside with a flavorful sticky glaze on top, this meatloaf is the kind of cozy meal that brings everyone back for seconds.

 Ingredients For the Meatloaf

• 2 lbs (900 g) ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs
• 1 small onion (finely diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Glaze

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp mustard

Optional Garnish

• Fresh parsley
• Extra black pepper

 Instructions

1. Preheat Oven
   Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture
   In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined without overworking the meat.
3. Shape the Meatloaf
   Form mixture into a loaf shape and place into prepared pan or baking tray.
4. Make the Glaze
   In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth. Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf.
5. Bake
   Bake uncovered for 45 minutes. Remove from oven and spread remaining glaze on top. Return to oven for another 15–20 minutes until cooked through and caramelized.
6. Rest Before Slicing
   Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep juices inside.
7. Serve
   Garnish with parsley and serve warm with your favorite sides.

 Time Required

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Rest Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour 25 minutes

Servings

• Serves: 6–8 people

 Notes

• Don’t overmix the meat mixture or the meatloaf may become dense.
• Use 80/20 ground beef for best moisture and flavor.
• Letting it rest helps it slice cleanly.

Tips

• Add shredded cheese inside for a cheesy version.
• Use crushed crackers instead of breadcrumbs if preferred.
• Line pan with parchment for easier cleanup.
• Leftovers make amazing sandwiches.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approx.)

• Calories: 380–480 kcal
• Protein: 25–30 g
• Carbohydrates: 15–20 g
• Fat: 22–30 g
• Fiber: 1–2 g

 Benefits

• High in protein: Great for satisfying meals.
• Comfort food classic: Warm, hearty, and family-friendly.
• Easy to customize: Add vegetables, cheese, or spices.
• Meal-prep friendly: Tastes great reheated the next day.

 Q&A

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, but turkey may cook faster and be slightly leaner.

Q2: Why is my meatloaf falling apart?
It may need more breadcrumbs or eggs for binding.

Q3: Can I freeze meatloaf?
Yes, freeze cooked or uncooked for up to 3 months.

Q4: What sides go best with meatloaf?
Mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted vegetables, or mac and cheese.

Q5: How do I know it’s fully cooked?
Internal temperature should reach 71°C (160°F).