Introduction

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that has been gracing dinner tables for generations. This recipe takes the beloved dish to new heights with a flavorful blend of ground meat, aromatic vegetables, and a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the humble meatloaf into a culinary masterpiece. With its tender texture, savory flavor, and irresistible sticky-sweet topping, this Meatloaf Recipe with the Best Glaze is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the meatloaf:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup onion, finely diced
• 1/4 cup green bell pepper, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano

For the glaze:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, bell pepper, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano. Mix gently with your hands until all ingredients are evenly distributed, being careful not to overmix.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into an even loaf.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
5. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf, reserving the remaining glaze for later.
6. Bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes, then remove it from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
7. Return the meatloaf to the oven and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
8. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Flavor Profile

This Meatloaf Recipe with the Best Glaze offers a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. The combination of ground beef and pork creates a rich, juicy base, while the breadcrumbs and milk help to keep the meatloaf tender and moist. The aromatic vegetables – onion, bell pepper, and garlic – add depth and complexity to the flavor profile, while the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and oregano provide a savory, umami-rich backbone.

The real star of this dish, however, is the irresistible glaze. The combination of ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar creates a sticky-sweet, tangy topping that perfectly complements the savory meatloaf. The garlic and onion powder in the glaze add an extra layer of flavor, making each bite a truly delightful experience.

Serving Suggestions

This Meatloaf Recipe with the Best Glaze is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides:

• Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic, comforting meal.
• Pair it with roasted vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes, for a healthy and flavorful side dish.
• Enjoy it with a simple side salad and crusty bread for a lighter, yet satisfying dinner.
• Slice leftover meatloaf and serve it on sandwiches with your favorite condiments for a delicious lunch option.

Variations

• Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute the ground beef and pork with ground turkey for a leaner version of this classic dish.
• Cheesy Meatloaf: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the meat mixture for a cheesy, gooey twist.
• BBQ Meatloaf: Replace the glaze ingredients with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy flavor.
• Italian Meatloaf: Add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil, and 1/4 cup of sun-dried tomatoes to the meat mixture for an Italian-inspired version.

Conclusion

This Meatloaf Recipe with the Best Glaze is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or any time you’re craving a satisfying, home-cooked meal. With its tender, juicy texture, savory flavor, and irresistible sticky-sweet glaze, this meatloaf is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

The combination of flavorful ingredients and simple preparation makes this dish accessible to cooks of all skill levels, while the versatility of the recipe allows for endless variations and customization. So next time you’re in the mood for a classic comfort food with a mouthwatering twist, give this Meatloaf Recipe with the Best Glaze a try. Your taste buds (and your loved ones) will thank you!