Savory American Meatloaf With Glaze Recipe

Meatloaf has endured as a classic American staple, renowned for its comforting qualities and versatility. A well-crafted meatloaf, complemented by a sweet tangy glaze, can transform a simple dinner into an unforgettable meal. This savory American meatloaf with glaze recipe marries rich flavors with straightforward preparation to deliver a hearty dish everyone at the table will love.

Ingredients for Savory American Meatloaf

To create a savory American meatloaf with glaze, you’ll need a balanced blend of high-quality ingredients. Selecting the freshest meats and herbs can make all the difference. Here is what you’ll need:

1 ½ pounds of ground beef (preferably 80/20 for flavor and tenderness)
1 cup of breadcrumbs (use panko for added crunch)
2 large eggs (acts as a binding agent for your meatloaf)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 cup of milk (adds moisture)
2 teaspoons of salt
1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce (enhances umami flavor)
½ cup of chopped fresh parsley (for color and freshness)

Crafting the Perfect Glaze

The glaze is an essential component of the savory American meatloaf with glaze recipe. It adds a shiny, flavorful coating that elevates the dish. Here's a simple yet delicious recipe for the glaze:

½ cup of ketchup (the base of the glaze with a sweet, tomato flavor)
2 tablespoons of brown sugar (adds sweetness and caramelization)
1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (introduces a slight tang)
1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard (provides depth and spice)

Cooking Directions for Meatloaf

Follow these steps for a flawless savory American meatloaf with glaze:

Guide Steps

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the meatloaf cooks evenly.
Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, milk, salt, pepper, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and chopped parsley. Mix gently to incorporate all the ingredients without compacting them too much, preserving the texture.
Shape the Meatloaf: Place the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, shaping it into a loaf form approximately 9x5 inches. This shape allows the meatloaf to cook through properly.
Mix the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste if necessary.
Apply the Glaze: Spread about half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf, reserving the rest for later.
Bake the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and cook for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Add More Glaze: Halfway through cooking (about 30 minutes in), apply the remaining glaze over the top to ensure the meatloaf is nicely coated and caramelized.
Rest and Serve: After removing the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for around 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute for a juicier bite.

FAQs

Can I use a mix of meats for my meatloaf? Yes, combining meats like beef, pork, or turkey can add complexity in taste and texture. Ensure you maintain the fat content for moisture.
How can I make my meatloaf extra moist? Don't overmix your meatloaf ingredients. Adding milk and using enough eggs and sauces help preserve moisture.
Is it possible to make a gluten-free version? Absolutely! Substitute breadcrumbs with oats or gluten-free panko as an alternative.
How do I store leftovers? Wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. It can last up to 4 days.