Classic Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze (Printable)

Tender seasoned beef loaf baked with sweet and tangy ketchup glaze for ultimate comfort food satisfaction.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Meat

01 - 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Binders & Fillers

04 - ¾ cup breadcrumbs
05 - ⅔ cup whole milk
06 - 2 large eggs

→ Flavorings & Seasoning

07 - 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
08 - 1 ½ tsp salt
09 - ½ tsp black pepper
10 - 1 tsp dried thyme
11 - ½ tsp smoked paprika

→ Glaze

12 - ½ cup ketchup
13 - 2 tbsp brown sugar
14 - 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
15 - 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
02 - Combine breadcrumbs and milk in a small bowl. Let soak for 5 minutes until absorbed.
03 - In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika. Mix gently until just combined—do not overmix.
04 - Form the mixture into a loaf approximately 8 x 4 inches. Place on the prepared baking sheet or transfer to the loaf pan.
05 - Whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a separate bowl until smooth.
06 - Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top and sides of the meatloaf.
07 - Bake for 45 minutes until the glaze begins to caramelize.
08 - Remove from oven and spread the remaining glaze over the meatloaf. Return to oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
09 - Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute. Serve warm.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The glaze creates this incredible caramelized crust that people will fight over
  • Leftovers somehow taste even better sandwiched between bread the next day
02 -
  • Letting the meat rest is non negotiable, cutting too soon spills all the moisture you worked to keep inside
  • The second glaze application creates that sticky restaurant style finish
03 -
  • Use a meat thermometer instead of guessing, overcooking ruins the texture
  • The free form shape on a baking sheet gives you more crispy edges than a loaf pan
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