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

Two thick slices of juicy meatloaf covered in a thick, bright red ketchup glaze, resting on a white plate.
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You can make a truly moist and flavorful homemade meatloaf that rivals any restaurant version. This classic beef meatloaf recipe focuses on simple steps to guarantee a tender texture and uses a tangy ketchup glaze for that familiar, comforting taste. It is an easy weeknight dinner main dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup dry breadcrumbs (or Stove Top Stuffing 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 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for the glaze)
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper if you prefer shaping it free-form.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the milk and breadcrumbs. Let this mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to fully absorb the liquid; this step helps keep your meatloaf moist.
  3. In a large bowl, gently combine the soaked breadcrumb mixture, ground beef, egg, chopped onion, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and garlic powder. Mix just until everything is combined. Do not overmix, as this can lead to a tough texture.
  4. Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar to create the glaze. Spread this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  6. Bake for 60 to 75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  7. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender meatloaf.

Notes

  • For an extra juicy meatloaf, you can substitute half of the milk with beef broth.
  • If you prefer a slightly sweeter glaze, increase the brown sugar in the topping to 1/3 cup.
  • This recipe makes a great holiday meatloaf alternative when you want something simpler than turkey.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenican.com/juicy-classic-beef-meatloaf-recipe/