Name: Classic Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs ground beef (85% or 80% lean); 1 medium onion (1 cup, finely chopped); 1 tsp olive oil; 2 large eggs; 3 garlic cloves (minced); 2 Tbsp ketchup; 3 Tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped); 3/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs); 1/3 cup milk; 1 tsp salt (or to taste); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp ground black pepper; 3/4 cup ketchup; 1 1/2 tsp white vinegar; 2 Tbsp brown sugar; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder

Ingredients

2 lbs ground beef (85% or 80% lean)

1 medium onion (about 1 cup), finely chopped

1 tsp olive oil

2 large eggs

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 Tbsp ketchup

3 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

3/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free bread crumbs)

1/3 cup milk

1 tsp salt (or to taste)

1 tsp Italian seasoning

1/2 tsp ground black pepper

3/4 cup ketchup (for glaze)

1 ½ tsp white vinegar (for glaze)

2 Tbsp brown sugar (for glaze)

1/2 tsp garlic powder (for glaze)

1/2 tsp onion powder (for glaze)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: In a medium skillet over medium heat, add 1 tsp olive oil and the chopped onion. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool on a plate.

Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onions, eggs, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons ketchup, parsley, Panko breadcrumbs, milk, salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined—using your hands works best. Consider wearing disposable gloves for easier cleanup.

Step 4: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Shape it into a loaf about 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 3 inches tall. Bake uncovered at 350°F for 40 minutes.

Step 5: While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the glaze by stirring together 3/4 cup ketchup, white vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 6: After the initial baking time, spread the glaze evenly over the meatloaf. Return it to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F on an instant-read thermometer.

Step 7: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the juices redistribute and makes for easier slicing.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, substitute half the ground beef with ground pork or turkey.

Mix in chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

If you prefer a spicier glaze, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the ketchup mixture.

Letting the meat mixture rest in the fridge for 30 minutes before shaping can improve texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other types of ground meat for this meatloaf?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, pork, or a combination for ground beef. Keep in mind cooking times might vary slightly, and leaner meats may need added moisture, like extra milk or an egg.

What if I don’t have Panko breadcrumbs?

You can use regular breadcrumbs or crush gluten-free bread to make your own crumbs. If you need a binder but don’t have any kind of breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oatmeal can work in a pinch.