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The Best Classic Juicy Meatloaf with Easy Tangy Glaze

Close-up of a juicy meatloaf, sliced and topped with a thick, shiny orange glaze.
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Make a tender, moist, and flavorful classic meatloaf using simple ingredients and top it with a simple ketchup glaze. This recipe is perfect for a satisfying family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 cup bread crumbs (or crushed crackers)
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for the loaf)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for the glaze)
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (for the glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for the glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or prepare a baking sheet.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the bread crumbs and milk. Let stand for 5 minutes to allow the bread crumbs to soak up the liquid.
  3. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, celery, bell pepper, egg, salt, pepper, thyme, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 cup of ketchup to the bowl.
  4. Mix all ingredients gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
  5. Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared loaf pan or on the baking sheet.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar to create the glaze.
  7. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  8. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove the loaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
  9. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
  10. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For an extra juicy loaf, you can mix 1/4 cup of finely grated carrot into the meat mixture.
  • If you prefer a crusty exterior, bake the meatloaf directly on a foil-lined baking sheet instead of in a loaf pan.
  • You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastytipster.com/juicy-meatloaf-secret-to-moist-family-dinner/