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Classic Diner-Style Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze

classic diner-style meatloaf with ketchup glaze - featured image

A nostalgic, comfort-food meatloaf made with simple pantry staples like ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a tangy ketchup-brown sugar glaze. This recipe ensures a moist, tender texture and is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup plain dried breadcrumbs (or Panko)
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides. Line a separate baking sheet with foil.
  2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic in the last minute. Let cool slightly.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooled onion mixture, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Gently mix by hand until just incorporated; do not overmix.
  4. Transfer mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Press down gently to remove air pockets and smooth the top.
  5. Place the loaf pan on the lined baking sheet and bake for 40 minutes.
  6. While the meatloaf bakes, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl to make the glaze.
  7. Remove meatloaf from oven. Spread the glaze evenly over the top. Return to oven and bake for another 20 minutes until the glaze bubbles and caramelizes.
  8. Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F (71°C). If lower, bake for 5 more minutes.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Use 80/20 ground beef to ensure moisture. Do not overmix the meat to avoid a tough texture. Letting the meatloaf rest for 15 minutes is crucial to retain juices. For a gluten-free version, swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, ketchup glaze, comfort food, easy dinner, ground beef recipe, weeknight meals, meal prep, diner style