A timeless comfort food, classic glazed meatloaf is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. This recipe features a savory beef mixture seasoned to perfection and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Whether for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this meatloaf delivers every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this a stress-free meal.
Packed with flavor – A perfect blend of seasonings and a rich glaze make this meatloaf incredibly tasty.
Moist and tender – No dry meatloaf here; this recipe stays juicy thanks to the right mix of ingredients.
Great for leftovers – Slice it up for sandwiches or reheat for another meal.
Family favorite – A crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Breadcrumbs
Egg
Milk
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Worcestershire sauce
Ketchup
Dijon mustard
Brown sugar
Salt and pepper

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the meatloaf ingredients – In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; do not overwork.
Shape the meatloaf – Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared pan or on the baking sheet.
Prepare the glaze – In a small bowl, mix ketchup, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake for 45 minutes, then spread the remaining glaze on top. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Rest and serve – Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Turkey Meatloaf – Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option.
Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.
Cheesy Twist – Mix in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for an extra savory bite.
BBQ Glaze – Replace ketchup with barbecue sauce for a smoky-sweet flavor.
Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or rolled oats instead of regular breadcrumbs.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave slices for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

How do I keep my meatloaf from falling apart?

Make sure to use enough binding ingredients like eggs and breadcrumbs to hold it together.

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the meatloaf and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it when you’re ready.

What’s the best meat to use for meatloaf?

A mix of 80/20 ground beef works best, balancing flavor and moisture.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, pork, or a mix of meats all work well.

Why is my meatloaf dry?

Overmixing or using lean meat can lead to dryness. Stick to 80/20 beef and mix gently.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

Rolled oats, crushed crackers, or panko make great substitutes.

How do I know when my meatloaf is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F (71°C) at the center.

Can I add vegetables to my meatloaf?

Yes! Finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms add flavor and moisture.

Should I cover meatloaf while baking?

Not necessary, but you can loosely cover it with foil if it browns too quickly.

What can I serve with meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad make great side dishes.

Conclusion

Classic glazed meatloaf is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its juicy texture, delicious glaze, and easy preparation, it’s a go-to recipe the whole family will love. Whether you follow the classic version or try one of the tasty variations, this meatloaf will become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy!