Ultimate Easy Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze
This ultimate easy meatloaf recipe features a flavorful blend of ground beef, seasonings, and a delicious ketchup glaze, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal. It's simple to prepare and bakes to perfection with a deliciously caramelized topping.
Equipment
- oven
- loaf pan
- mixing bowls
- whisk
- baking dish
- parchment paper
- baking sheet
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef 80/20 lean is ideal for flavor and moisture
- 1 small yellow onion finely diced
- ½ cup plain breadcrumbs panko works great for texture
- ¼ cup milk any kind
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (optional, for flavor and color)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Ketchup Glaze
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar light or dark
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan or an 8x4 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir in the breadcrumbs and finely diced onion, then let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to absorb the liquid.
- Add the ground beef and chopped parsley (if using) to the bowl and gently mix all ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan or form it into an even loaf shape on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Baking
- Bake the meatloaf for 40 minutes in the preheated oven.
- While the meatloaf bakes, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl until smooth to prepare the glaze.
- After 40 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven, spoon or brush about half of the glaze evenly over the top, and return to the oven to bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the glaze is slightly caramelized.
Serving
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For best results, avoid overmixing the meatloaf mixture to ensure a tender texture. You can customize the glaze with a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick. Always ensure the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for food safety. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and are delicious in sandwiches!