Classic glazed meatloaf is a dish that brings back memories of hearty family dinners. This flavorful meatloaf is made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a variety of seasonings, then topped with a delicious glaze of ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. It's perfect for a comforting meal when served with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
1 ½ lbs ground beef (85% lean)
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
¼ cup milk
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Glaze:
½ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika. Mix until well incorporated.
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard to create the glaze.
Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake for 45 minutes, then spread the remaining glaze over the top.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Storage/Reheating
To store leftovers, I place the meatloaf in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. If I want to reheat it, I simply cover it with foil and bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until it's heated through. It also reheats well in the microwave for 2-3 minutes on medium heat.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be slightly different, and turkey tends to be leaner, so it may be a bit drier. You might want to add a little extra moisture, like a splash more milk, to keep it juicy.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Definitely! I can prepare the meatloaf and glaze a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When I'm ready to bake it, I simply preheat the oven and bake as directed. This makes for a super convenient meal on busy days.
Can I freeze the meatloaf?
Yes, I can freeze meatloaf! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes until heated through.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
I always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. When it reaches 160°F (71°C), it’s safe to eat. This ensures the meatloaf is cooked through and not undercooked.
Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf mixture?
Absolutely! If I want to add extra flavor and nutrients, I can mix in finely chopped vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just make sure to chop them small so they blend well with the meat mixture.
Conclusion
This classic glazed meatloaf recipe is the epitome of comfort food. With its juicy meatloaf base and sweet-tangy glaze, it makes for a perfect family dinner. Whether served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad, it’s a meal that will surely be enjoyed by everyone at the table. The best part? It’s easy to make, reheats well, and can even be made ahead of time.
Recipe:

Classic Glazed Meatloaf
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This classic glazed meatloaf recipe is a timeless comfort food that combines savory ground beef, aromatic seasonings, and a tangy, sweet ketchup glaze. Perfect for family dinners, it’s juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, this hearty meal will satisfy everyone at the table. Make ahead or store leftovers with ease!
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
1 ½ lbs ground beef (85% lean)
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
¼ cup milk
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Glaze:
½ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika. Mix until well incorporated.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
- In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard to create the glaze.
- Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 45 minutes, then spread the remaining glaze over the top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
For a juicier meatloaf, consider adding a splash more milk or using ground turkey with a bit of extra moisture.
This recipe can be easily doubled for larger groups or meal prepping.
For a low-carb option, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal