There's something uniquely comforting about a classic meatloaf. It's a dish that instantly transports many of us back to childhood, conjuring images of cozy family dinners and hearty, satisfying flavors. Often misunderstood, a truly great meatloaf is far from boring – it's moist, flavorful, and incredibly versatile.
The
secret to a show-stopping meatloaf lies in a few key elements: a flavorful meat
mixture, a binding agent that keeps it tender, and, arguably most important, a
delicious glaze that caramelizes on top, adding a layer of tangy sweetness. Our
recipe today focuses on that perfect balance, topped with a vibrant, simple
tomato sauce that elevates every bite.
Forget
dry, crumbly versions of the past; this recipe will make you a meatloaf
believer!
Hearty
Meatloaf with Tangy Tomato Glaze Recipe
Ingredients:
For
the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
(preferably 80/20 for flavor and moisture)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or
regular)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire
sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian
seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For
the Tomato Glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider
vinegar (or red wine vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1.
Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a
baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup. If you have a
loaf pan with a draining insert, use that; otherwise, you can form it on the
baking sheet itself.
2.
Combine Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine all the meatloaf
ingredients: ground beef, finely diced onion, breadcrumbs, milk, beaten egg,
minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use
your hands to mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can
lead to a tough meatloaf.
3.
Form the Loaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan.
Shape it into a loaf, about 9x5 inches. If using a regular loaf pan, you may
want to place it on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
4.
Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together all the glaze
ingredients: ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard,
until well combined.
5.
First Bake: Bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes.
6.
Apply Glaze & Continue Baking: Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Evenly spread
about half of the prepared tomato glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Return to
the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature
reaches 160°F (71°C) on an instant-read thermometer and the glaze is slightly
caramelized.
7.
Rest & Serve: Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let
it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to
redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result. Serve with the remaining
glaze on the side, if desired.
Tips
for Meatloaf Mastery:
- Don't Skimp on Fat: Using 80/20 ground beef
provides enough fat to keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful. Leaner meats
can result in a dry texture.
- Avoid Overmixing: This is crucial! Mix just
enough to combine the ingredients; excessive handling can develop the
proteins too much, making the meatloaf tough.
- Let it Rest: The resting period is
essential. It helps the meatloaf hold its shape and keeps it juicy when
sliced.
- Customize Your Glaze: Feel free to adjust the
sweetness or tanginess of the glaze to your preference. A pinch of cayenne
can add a subtle kick!
Pair
this glorious meatloaf with mashed potatoes and your favorite green vegetable
for a truly satisfying and nostalgic meal. Enjoy the comforting embrace of this
timeless classic!
