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Classic Homemade Meatloaf with Tomato Ketchup Glaze Recipe

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4.3 from 3 reviews

This classic meatloaf recipe features a flavorful mixture of ground beef, sautéed onions, garlic, and herbs, all bound together with breadcrumbs and eggs. Topped with a tangy homemade ketchup glaze, it bakes to juicy perfection for a comforting and hearty family meal.

Ingredients

Meatloaf

  • 2 lbs ground beef (85% or 80% lean)
  • 1 med onion (1 cup), finely chopped
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 Tbsp ketchup
  • 3 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 3/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free bread crumbs)
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

Glaze

  • 3/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 ½ tsp white vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

Instructions

  1. Prep: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to facilitate easier cleanup later. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the meatloaf.
  2. Sautee Onions: Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and turn a golden color, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat and transfer the onions to a plate to cool.
  3. Make the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooled sautéed onions, eggs, minced garlic, ketchup, fresh parsley, Panko breadcrumbs, milk, salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Mix everything together just until combined—using your hands works best for an even mix, and disposable gloves can help keep things tidy.
  4. Shape Meatloaf and Bake: Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf approximately 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 3 inches tall. Place it uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes.
  5. Make the Sauce: While the meatloaf is baking, whisk together ketchup, white vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl until smooth to create the glaze.
  6. Add the Glaze: After the initial 40 minutes of baking, carefully spread the prepared ketchup glaze evenly over the meatloaf. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer.
  7. Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting period helps the meatloaf firm up and makes it easier to slice neatly. Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

  • Use 80-85% lean ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture.
  • You can substitute Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking helps retain juices and results in cleaner slices.
  • Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the meatloaf has reached a safe internal temperature of 160°F.
  • For a deeper flavor, prepare the glaze ahead and refrigerate for a few hours before glazing the meatloaf.