A comforting, juicy, and flavorful meatloaf topped with a sweet and tangy glaze, this recipe is perfect for a satisfying homemade meal. Made with simple ingredients and packed with delicious flavors, this meatloaf is an excellent choice for a family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Flavorful – The combination of Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika enhances the taste.
Moist and Tender – The use of breadcrumbs soaked in milk ensures a juicy texture.
Easy to Make – Simple steps make this a beginner-friendly dish.
Perfectly Glazed – A sweet and tangy glaze adds the ideal finishing touch.
Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meatloaf:

1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 large egg, beaten
1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional)

For the Glaze:

1/3 cup ketchup
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp apple cider vinegar

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a loaf pan.
In a large bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes to absorb.
Add the ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, beaten egg, and parsley. Gently mix until just combined—avoid overmixing.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet or in the loaf pan.
In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar to make the glaze. Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf.
Bake for 40 minutes, then spread the remaining glaze on top. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve warm with mashed potatoes and vegetables.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 380 kcal per serving

Variations

Turkey Meatloaf – Swap the beef for ground turkey for a leaner version.
Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Cheesy Meatloaf – Mix in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness.
Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed oats.
Bacon-Wrapped – Wrap the loaf in bacon for added flavor and crispiness.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave in short intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How do I prevent my meatloaf from drying out?

Soaking the breadcrumbs in milk helps retain moisture, and using 80/20 ground beef ensures a juicy texture.

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the loaf up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the fridge until ready to bake.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

Crushed crackers, rolled oats, or panko breadcrumbs work as great substitutes.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative, though the texture may be slightly different.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C).

Can I make this recipe without eggs?

Yes, you can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) or 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce.

Should I cook the onions before adding them?

No, finely diced onions will soften while baking. However, if you prefer a milder taste, you can sauté them first.

Can I make mini meatloaves instead?

Yes, shape the mixture into smaller loaves and reduce the baking time to about 25-30 minutes.

What sides pair well with meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, and dinner rolls complement this dish perfectly.

Why is my meatloaf falling apart?

Overmixing can cause a crumbly texture. Also, ensure the right ratio of meat, binder (breadcrumbs), and moisture (milk, egg).

Conclusion

This classic meatloaf with a tangy glaze is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for any home-cooked meal. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or try a variation, this meatloaf is sure to be a family favorite. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or as delicious leftovers the next day!

The Best Classic Meatloaf with a Tangy Glaze