ADVERTISEMENT
Classic Meatloaf with Sweet Ketchup Glaze: A Hearty and Flavorful Meal
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as beloved and satisfying as a classic meatloaf. It’s the quintessential family dinner that’s hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. But what really makes meatloaf stand out is the perfect glaze that coats the top, creating a savory-sweet finish with every bite.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the classic meatloaf recipe, complete with a sweet ketchup glaze that adds a touch of tangy sweetness to this already delicious dish. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or planning a family gathering, this meatloaf will hit the spot.
The Comfort of Classic Meatloaf
Meatloaf is a timeless dish that evokes feelings of home and tradition. Its humble origins have made it a staple in kitchens around the world, especially in the United States. The combination of ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings all bound together in a loaf shape is simple, but it’s the flavor and versatility that make meatloaf such a crowd-pleaser.
What makes this recipe special, however, is the sweet ketchup glaze that’s generously spread on top. This glaze is what takes this meatloaf to the next level, giving it a wonderful balance of sweetness and tang that perfectly complements the savory richness of the meat. The result? A comforting, satisfying, and downright delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love Classic Meatloaf with Sweet Ketchup Glaze
- Hearty and Filling: Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food. It’s filling, flavorful, and perfect for satisfying hunger.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with basic pantry staples like ground beef, breadcrumbs, onions, and seasonings, this meatloaf is easy to prepare and doesn’t require any special ingredients.
- Sweet and Savory Glaze: The sweet ketchup glaze adds an irresistible flavor that balances the rich taste of the meat, making every bite a perfect blend of tangy and sweet.
- Customizable: You can add your favorite herbs and spices to make this recipe your own. Plus, the glaze can be adjusted to suit your tastes—whether you like it sweeter or more tangy.
- Great for Leftovers: Meatloaf is even better the next day. The leftovers make for delicious sandwiches or can be enjoyed on their own, reheated for another comforting meal.
Ingredients for Classic Meatloaf with Sweet Ketchup Glaze
To make this hearty and flavorful meatloaf, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80% lean for the best flavor)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers, if you prefer)
- 1/2 cup milk (helps keep the meatloaf moist)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a mixture of your favorite dried herbs)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (adds depth of flavor)
For the Sweet Ketchup Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (adds a touch of tang)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for a slight tanginess)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for extra flavor)
How to Make Classic Meatloaf with Sweet Ketchup Glaze
Making this classic meatloaf is simple, and it comes together in just a few easy steps. Here’s how to prepare this comforting dish:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when the meatloaf is formed.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
