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The Best Ultra-Juicy Classic Beef Meatloaf with Tangy Ketchup Glaze

Close-up of two thick slices of moist meatloaf topped with a shiny, thick red ketchup glaze.
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Make the best meatloaf ever with this easy recipe that guarantees a moist, tender texture and a classic, flavorful ketchup glaze. This is your go-to comfort food dinner idea.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup dry breadcrumbs (or Stove Top Stuffing crumbs for a hack)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup ketchup (for the mix)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for the glaze)
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (for the glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for the glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for shaping.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the milk and breadcrumbs. Let this mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to soak up the liquid; this keeps your meatloaf moist.
  3. Add the ground beef, beaten egg, chopped onion, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the bowl.
  4. Mix all ingredients gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
  5. Shape the mixture into a loaf shape (about 9×5 inches) on your prepared pan or place it directly into the loaf pan.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard for the glaze. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  7. Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  8. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For an extra juicy meatloaf, use a mix of ground beef and ground pork (1 lb each).
  • If you prefer a crusty exterior, skip the loaf pan and bake the loaf directly on a foil-lined baking sheet.
  • This recipe works well as a holiday meatloaf alternative to turkey.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cheffinity.com/best-juicy-classic-meatloaf-recipe/