Irresistible Glazed Meatloaf Recipe Easy Dinner Idea

The smell of tender, juicy meatloaf baking in the oven is the ultimate comfort. I remember the first time I made this irresistible glazed meatloaf recipe—it was a chilly evening, and I was looking for something hearty and satisfying to warm us up. Fast forward to today, this recipe has become a family favorite, and honestly, it’s not just delicious—it’s foolproof. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or simply craving a cozy meal, this meatloaf delivers every single time. Plus, the sticky, tangy glaze on top? Absolute perfection.

This glazed meatloaf recipe checks all the boxes: easy, flavorful, and made with simple, wholesome ingredients. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, gets passed down through generations, and has everyone coming back for seconds. Trust me, once you try this, it might just become a regular in your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: No fancy techniques or hours of prep required. You can have this meatloaf in the oven in just 15 minutes.
• Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen—no special shopping trips necessary.
• A Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory meatloaf and the sweet-tangy glaze is a match made in heaven.
• Perfect for Dinner: Whether it’s a casual weekday meal or a comforting Sunday dinner, this recipe fits the bill.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters can’t resist this one—it’s that good.

What really sets this glazed meatloaf apart? The secret is in the glaze. It’s not your average ketchup topping—it’s a quick mix of sweet, tangy, and savory ingredients that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. And let’s not forget the texture of the meatloaf itself: soft, tender, with just enough bite to hold together perfectly. This isn’t your grandma’s dry meatloaf; it’s the kind that makes you savor every bite and wish you cooked a double batch!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This glazed meatloaf recipe uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create a dish that’s as delicious as it is comforting.

For the Meatloaf

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (85% lean is ideal for flavor and texture)
• 1 lb (450g) ground pork (adds moisture and richness)
• 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs (use plain or Italian seasoned—your choice!)
• 1/3 cup (80ml) milk (whole milk works best for extra creaminess)
• 2 large eggs, beaten (helps bind everything together)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, but adds depth)

For the Glaze

• 1/2 cup (120ml) ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (adds a tangy kick)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Feel free to tweak the recipe to your taste! For example, you can use ground turkey instead of ground pork for a leaner option or add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls: One for the meatloaf mixture and one for the glaze.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for precise measurements.
• Loaf pan: A standard 9×5-inch loaf pan works best, but you can also form a free-standing loaf on a baking sheet.
• Spatula: Useful for spreading the glaze evenly on top.
• Knife and cutting board: For chopping the onion and garlic.
• Aluminum foil: To tent the meatloaf and prevent over-browning.

If you don’t have a loaf pan, don’t stress—you can shape the meatloaf by hand and bake it directly on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper. It works just as well!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix until just combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.
3. Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet. Smooth the top and edges out for even cooking.
4. Make the glaze: In a smaller bowl, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Set aside.
5. Glaze the meatloaf: Spread half of the glaze mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Reserve the other half for later.
6. Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
7. Add more glaze: After 45 minutes, take the meatloaf out of the oven and spread the remaining glaze on top. Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (72°C).
8. Rest: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and tent it with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing—this helps keep it moist and juicy.
9. Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are a few tips to make sure your glazed meatloaf turns out perfectly:

• Don’t overmix: Mixing the meat too much can make the meatloaf tough. Use your hands or a spatula and mix until just combined.
• Choose the right meat ratio: A mix of beef and pork ensures the meatloaf is moist and flavorful. Using all beef can make it too dry.
• Use parchment paper for easy cleanup: If you’re not using a loaf pan, shape the meatloaf on parchment paper to avoid any sticking.
• Check the temperature: Invest in a meat thermometer to ensure your meatloaf reaches the perfect internal temperature of 160°F (72°C).
• Customize the glaze: If you prefer a sweeter or spicier glaze, adjust the brown sugar or add a pinch of chili flakes.

Variations & Adaptations

There’s so much room to play with this recipe! Here are some fun variations:

• Turkey Meatloaf: Swap out the ground beef and pork for ground turkey for a leaner option. Add a splash of olive oil to keep it moist.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly alternative.
• Vegetarian Option: Use lentils, black beans, or plant-based ground meat instead of the beef and pork.
• Seasonal Twists: Add grated zucchini or carrots for extra veggies, or swap smoked paprika with fresh thyme for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for some heat.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This meatloaf is best served warm, right out of the oven. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. For a cozy touch, serve with a side of homemade dinner rolls or cornbread.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, wrap slices in aluminum foil and place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or microwave them until heated through. You can also freeze the meatloaf for up to 3 months—just slice it up and wrap individual portions for easy future meals.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This irresistible glazed meatloaf recipe provides approximately:

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbs: 15g

With its high protein content, this meatloaf is perfect for a satisfying dinner that keeps you full. The glaze adds a touch of sweetness, while the smoked paprika provides depth without excess sodium. For gluten-free diets, simply swap the breadcrumbs for almond flour. Allergens include eggs, milk, and gluten, but substitutions can make this recipe more inclusive.

Conclusion

This irresistible glazed meatloaf recipe is truly worth a try. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug—perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prep. I love how versatile and forgiving this recipe is, and I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do.

Irresistible Glazed Meatloaf Recipe Easy Dinner Idea

Print Recipe

This glazed meatloaf recipe is a family favorite, featuring a tender and juicy meatloaf topped with a sticky, tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

• Author: Lucy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup milk
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet. Smooth the top and edges out for even cooking.
4. In a smaller bowl, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Set aside.
5. Spread half of the glaze mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Reserve the other half for later.
6. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
7. After 45 minutes, take the meatloaf out of the oven and spread the remaining glaze on top. Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (72°C).
8. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and tent it with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
9. Slice the meatloaf and serve with your favorite sides.

Notes

[‘Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture to avoid a dense texture.’, ‘Use parchment paper for easy cleanup if not using a loaf pan.’, ‘Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 160°F (72°C).’, ‘Customize the glaze by adjusting the sweetness or adding chili flakes for spice.’]

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 350
• Fat: 20
• Carbohydrates: 15
• Protein: 25

Keywords: meatloaf, glazed meatloaf, comfort food, easy dinner, family recipe