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The Most Tender, Juicy Classic Meatloaf with an Easy, Zesty Glaze

A close-up of a juicy meatloaf, sliced open to show the moist interior and topped with a thick, shiny glaze.
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This is the ultimate comfort food recipe for a truly tender and juicy meatloaf, topped with a simple, flavorful glaze. Make this family favorite the headline of your weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
  • 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 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup ketchup (for the loaf)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for the glaze)
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (for the glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for the glaze)
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (for the glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard loaf pan or prepare a baking sheet if you prefer free-form baking.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the 1/4 cup ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar for the glaze. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in the milk for about five minutes until softened.
  4. Add the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs mixture, egg, chopped onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and the 1/4 cup ketchup for the loaf into the large bowl.
  5. Gently mix all ingredients with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
  6. Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared loaf pan or on the baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 40 minutes.
  8. After 40 minutes, carefully brush the prepared zesty glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  9. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  10. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps keep your meatloaf juicy.

Notes

  • For an extra tender meatloaf, use a mix of ground beef and ground pork or veal.
  • If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the brown sugar to 3 tablespoons.
  • This recipe pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic comfort food dinner.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://magazinemeal.com/classic-juicy-meatloaf-recipe/