Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender ground beef with savory vegetables and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. It’s a dish that brings back memories of family dinners and cozy Sunday meals. But not all meatloaf recipes are created equal—the secret to a truly unforgettable meatloaf lies in a perfect balance of ingredients and, of course, the best glaze.
In this recipe, I’ll show you how to make a rich and flavorful meatloaf using ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a mixture of vegetables for added texture and moisture. The star of the show, however, is the glaze—a sweet, tangy, and savory blend of ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. This glaze not only adds a mouthwatering finish but also infuses the meatloaf with delicious flavor as it bakes.
1. Old Fashioned Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients For Meatloaf
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Ingredients For Glaze
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, onion, celery, carrots, garlic, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined.
Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan. Press the mixture into the loaf pan, making sure it is evenly distributed.
In a small saucepan, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved and the glaze is smooth.
Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 60 to 75 minutes. Once the meatloaf has been cooking for about 30 minutes, spoon the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it out evenly.
Return the meatloaf to the oven and continue baking for the remaining cooking time, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
2. Tips for the Best Meatloaf
Don’t Overmix: When combining the meatloaf ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can result in a dense, tough texture.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the meatloaf is cooked through but not overdone, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
Let the Meatloaf Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes after baking helps it hold its shape and makes it easier to slice.
Vegetable Variations: If you prefer, you can swap out the celery and carrots for other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to add different flavors and textures.
3. How to Serve Meatloaf
Meatloaf is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving suggestions:
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect complement to the savory meatloaf and tangy glaze.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy and colorful side.
Green Beans: Sautéed or steamed green beans add a fresh, vibrant element to the meal.
Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a lighter option.
Coleslaw: Tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatloaf.
4. How to Store and Reheat Meatloaf
Storing
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating
To reheat, place slices of meatloaf on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
You can also microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes, but be aware that this may result in a softer texture.
Use Leftovers
Meatloaf Sandwich: Use leftover meatloaf to make a delicious sandwich with slices of meatloaf, cheese, and your favorite condiments.
Meatloaf Hash: Chop up leftover meatloaf and fry it with diced potatoes and onions for a hearty breakfast hash.
This old fashioned meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s sure to please the whole family. With its tender, flavorful ground beef base and sweet-and-tangy glaze, this meatloaf is as delicious as it is easy to make. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special Sunday meal, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
