Glazed Meatloaf
Indulge in a classic comfort food with this delectable glazed meatloaf recipe, a favorite that promises to delight every palate. The combination of lean ground beef and a medley of flavorful ingredients creates a hearty dish that’s both satisfying and memorable.
What truly sets this meatloaf apart is its irresistible glaze. A perfect blend of ketchup, brown sugar, and lemon juice infuses sweetness and tanginess, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Moist and tender, this meatloaf is bound to become a staple at your dinner table.
Easy to prepare and wonderfully filling, this glazed meatloaf is ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering. Serve it hot, and watch as it transforms a simple meal into a cherished culinary experience. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this timeless dish!
Glazed Meatloaf Ingredients
In crafting the perfect glazed meatloaf, each ingredient plays a pivotal role.
Ketchup brings a rich sweetness and tang, forming the base of the luscious glaze that envelops the meatloaf.
Brown sugar adds depth and caramelization, enhancing the glaze’s sweetness and balancing the savory elements.
Lemon juice contributes a bright acidity, cutting through the richness and elevating the overall flavor profile.
Lean ground beef serves as the hearty foundation, providing a satisfying texture while allowing the other ingredients to shine.
Shredded bread acts as a binding agent, ensuring the meatloaf remains moist and tender throughout the cooking process.
Diced onion infuses aromatic sweetness, creating layers of flavor that enhance the dish’s overall appeal.
Beef bouillon deepens the umami, intensifying the savory notes that make each bite irresistible.
These ingredients harmonize to create a comforting classic that’s sure to please at any table.
Glazed Meatloaf: Tips, Serving Suggestions, and FAQ
Glazed meatloaf is a beloved classic, and for good reason. Its sweet and tangy glaze elevates the traditional dish, making it moist and flavorful. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, these enhancements will ensure your glazed meatloaf is a hit.
Recipe Tips
- Choose the Right Meat: Using lean ground beef is essential for a healthy meatloaf. However, if you want more flavor and moisture, consider mixing in a bit of ground pork or turkey. The combination can enhance the taste while keeping it juicy.
- Customize the Glaze: The glaze is where you can get creative! While the classic mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, and lemon juice is fantastic, feel free to experiment. Try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or even a hint of smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor.
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is tender and flavorful. Skipping this step can lead to a dry meatloaf as the juices escape during slicing.
What to Serve with Glazed Meatloaf
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing with glazed meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes provide the perfect canvas for soaking up the delicious glaze. To elevate this dish, consider adding garlic or sour cream to your mashed potatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
- Steamed Green Beans: Bright, crisp green beans add a fresh contrast to the rich, savory meatloaf. A quick steam and a sprinkle of salt or a squeeze of lemon juice will keep them vibrant and tasty, making them an ideal complement to the meal.
- Side Salad: A light, refreshing side salad can balance the richness of the meatloaf. Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a simple vinaigrette for a delightful, crunchy accompaniment. The acidity of the dressing will help cut through the meatloaf’s sweetness.
FAQ
- Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf, then cover it and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking it straight from the fridge. - How do I store leftovers?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will last for about three months. - Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! While lean ground beef is traditional, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a mixture of meats. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, depending on the meat’s fat content. - Why is my meatloaf falling apart?
If your meatloaf crumbles, it may be due to insufficient binding agents. Ensure you include the egg and enough shredded bread in your mixture. Additionally, let the meatloaf rest before slicing to help it hold together better.
With these tips, serving suggestions, and answers to common questions, you’re all set to create a fantastic glazed meatloaf that will impress family and friends alike! Enjoy your cooking!
Glazed Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of lean ground beef
- ½ cup of ketchup
- ⅓ cup of brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons of lemon juice divided
- 1 teaspoon of dry mustard
- 3 slices of bread shredded
- ¼ cup of diced onion
- 1 large egg beaten
- 1 beef bouillon cube crumbled
Instructions
- Begin by assembling all necessary ingredients. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and dry mustard. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, shredded bread, 1/3 cup of the ketchup mixture, diced onion, the beaten egg, the remaining 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, and the crumbled bouillon cube. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well integrated.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it into a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 1 hour. After this time, carefully remove the pan from the oven and drain any excess fat.
- Spread the remaining ketchup mixture over the top of the meatloaf. Return it to the oven and continue baking until the meatloaf is no longer pink in the center, which should take about 10 additional minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the loaf should indicate a minimum internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius).
- Serve the meatloaf hot and enjoy this classic dish!
