Classic Meatloaf with Tomato Ketchup Glaze Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that never fails to please a crowd, look no further than this Classic Meatloaf with Tomato Ketchup Glaze Recipe. It’s a timeless dish that combines juicy ground beef, tender breadcrumbs soaked in savory onion, and a tangy, sweet tomato ketchup glaze that caramelizes perfectly in the oven. This recipe brings back memories of home-cooked dinners and warms you from the inside out with every bite. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this meatloaf promises that perfect balance of flavors and textures that make it a beloved classic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role — from the panko breadcrumbs that keep the meatloaf moist and tender, to the Worcestershire sauce adding a savory depth, and the tomato ketchup glaze delivering that irresistible finish. None of these are complicated or hard to find, but together they create a symphony of flavors.

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: These add lightness and absorb moisture, keeping your meatloaf from becoming dense.
• 1 large grated onion: Adds natural sweetness and moisture, perfectly blending with the beef.
• 1 kg / 2 lb ground beef (preferably not lean): The star protein, providing rich flavor and juiciness.
• 2 eggs: Act as binders to hold everything together beautifully.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: For a subtle kick and aromatic depth.
• 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami and complexity.
• 1/4 cup tomato ketchup: Mixed inside the meatloaf for moisture and subtle sweetness.
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional): Brightens the dish with fresh, herby notes.
• 1 tsp dried thyme: Brings earthiness and warmth.
• 2 beef bouillon cubes (crumbled) or 2 tsp beef powder: Enhances the meaty savoriness.
• 1 tsp black pepper: For a gentle heat and seasoning balance.
• 1/2 cup tomato ketchup: For the glaze, the hallmark component of the dish.
• 2 tbsp cider vinegar: Adds tang to cut through richness in the glaze.
• 1 tbsp brown sugar: Sweetness that caramelizes on top during baking.

How to Make Classic Meatloaf with Tomato Ketchup Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 180C (350F) and greasing a loaf tin to prevent any sticking. Setting the stage properly ensures your meatloaf bakes evenly and comes out perfectly formed.

Step 2: Mix the Glaze

Combine the tomato ketchup, cider vinegar, and brown sugar in a small bowl. This glaze will create that irresistible sticky, tangy crust on top of the meatloaf. Set it aside for later use.

Step 3: Soak the Breadcrumbs with Onion

Place the panko breadcrumbs in a large bowl, then grate your onion directly over them and mix. This trick saturates the breadcrumbs fully, making the meatloaf tender and moist without adding extra liquid.

Step 4: Combine the Meatloaf Ingredients

Add in your ground beef, eggs, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, parsley, thyme, crumbled bouillon cubes, and black pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Use your hands to mix thoroughly — this is the best way to evenly distribute all those flavors and bind the ingredients.

Step 5: Shape the Meatloaf

Form the mixture into a loaf shape by pinching and smoothing the surface to seal any cracks. This careful shaping helps prevent the meatloaf from crumbling during baking and creates an appealing, uniform appearance.

Step 6: Apply the First Glaze

Place your meatloaf into the prepared loaf tin and brush about half of the glaze generously over the top. This starts building that delicious sticky layer.

Step 7: Bake and Glaze Again

Bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes, then remove from the oven and brush on most of the remaining glaze. Take a moment to scoop off any excess fat pooled around the meatloaf. Return it to the oven for an additional 30 minutes. This two-step glazing process guarantees a richly flavored and glossy finish.

Step 8: Rest Before Slicing

Allow your meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes once out of the oven. This lets the juices redistribute and results in thicker, cleaner slices. Expect a little crumble on the edges — it’s a sign of a tender, lovingly made meatloaf, not a mistake.

Step 9: Ready to Serve

Your Classic Meatloaf with Tomato Ketchup Glaze Recipe is now set to be enjoyed. It shines best when paired simply but deliciously, so let’s talk serving options next.

How to Serve Classic Meatloaf with Tomato Ketchup Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dollop of ketchup adds extra zing and visually complements the glaze’s rich red color. Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of green and freshness that livens the dish up beautifully.

Side Dishes

This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up all those savory juices. Steamed vegetables, such as carrots, green beans, or broccoli, add color and healthful crunch, balancing the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try slicing the meatloaf into thick slices and serving sandwiches with toasted buns, crisp lettuce, and a smear of the classic glaze. You can also cube leftovers and toss them into a hearty pasta sauce or shepherd’s pie for a flavor-packed reincarnation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3-4 days without losing their delicious texture and flavor.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully! Wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in foil and then place it in a freezer bag or container. It will last for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, slice and warm portions in a microwave or cover with foil and heat in a 180C oven for about 15-20 minutes until hot throughout. Adding a little extra ketchup on top before warming can revive the glaze’s tangy brightness.

FAQs

Can I use different ground meats in this Classic Meatloaf with Tomato Ketchup Glaze Recipe?

Absolutely! While ground beef gives the classic flavor, mixing in ground pork or turkey can add moisture or a lighter touch. Just be mindful that lean meats might need a bit more fat or moisture to keep the loaf tender.

What’s the best way to prevent the meatloaf from drying out?

Using panko soaked in grated onion, as this recipe suggests, locks in moisture. Also, avoid overmixing the meat which can make it dense, and don’t skip the glaze because it helps keep the top moist and flavorful during baking.

Can I make the Classic Meatloaf with Tomato Ketchup Glaze Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Everything else stays the same for that signature taste.

How do I know when my meatloaf is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 70C (160F) when checked with a meat thermometer. The glaze will be bubbly and caramelized, and the edges will pull away slightly from the pan.

Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture the night before?

Definitely! Mixing the ingredients the night before allows flavors to meld beautifully. Just store the mixture covered in the fridge and shape and bake it fresh the next day for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Meatloaf with Tomato Ketchup Glaze Recipe is a heartwarming dish that truly feels like a delicious hug on a plate. Its blend of simple ingredients and thoughtful steps creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day you want a taste of comforting tradition. I encourage you to try making it your own, savoring the process and the wonderful flavors that await you. Your family and friends will be so happy you did!

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