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Best Classic Meatloaf Recipe with Juicy Glazed Crust

classic meatloaf recipe - featured image

A nostalgic and easy-to-make classic meatloaf with a juicy interior and a sticky, sweet glazed crust. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and cozy meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
  • 0.5 pound ground pork
  • 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • For the glaze:
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, combine 3/4 cup breadcrumbs with 1/2 cup milk. Let sit for 5 minutes until the crumbs soak up the milk and form a soft mixture.
  3. Finely chop 1 medium onion and mince 2 garlic cloves.
  4. Add 1 lb ground beef and 0.5 lb ground pork to the soaked breadcrumbs. Add the onion, garlic, 2 large eggs, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper.
  5. Gently combine using your hands or a spoon until just mixed. Avoid overmixing.
  6. Shape the mixture into a loaf about 9×5 inches (23×13 cm) and place it on the prepared pan or baking sheet.
  7. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup ketchup, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, and 1 tsp Dijon mustard (if using).
  8. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  9. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Tent with foil if the glaze browns too quickly.
  10. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to keep the meatloaf tender. Soak breadcrumbs in milk for moisture. Rest meatloaf after baking for juicy slices. Tent with foil if glaze browns too fast. Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, classic meatloaf, glazed meatloaf, easy meatloaf recipe, comfort food, family dinner, potluck recipe