The Best Meatloaf Recipe with Sweet & Tangy Glaze

Craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner? This best meatloaf recipe with sweet & tangy glaze combines juicy, flavorful meat with a caramelized topping that wins hearts with every slice. Ideal for family dinners or cozy weekend meals!

⏱ Prep time: 15 minutes

 🔥 Cook time: ~1 hour (glaze included)

 🍴 Serving: 6–8

👉Ingredients

👉For the Meatloaf

• 2 lb (85–90% lean) ground beef 

• 1 small onion, finely diced (sautéed) 

• 2 eggs, beaten (binders) 

• ¾–1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed saltine crackers 

• ½ cup milk 

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (for depth and umami) 

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning or parsley 

👉For the Sweet & Tangy Glaze

• ¾ cup ketchup 

• 3 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar or white vinegar

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional for savory depth)

• A pinch each of garlic powder and onion powder

👉Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prep & Flavor Base👇

• Preheat the oven to 350–375 °F (depending on loaf size).

• Sauté diced onion (and garlic, if using) in a little oil or butter until soft and fragrant.

2. Make the Meatloaf Mixture👇

• In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, eggs, soaked breadcrumbs (in milk), Worcestershire sauce, sautéed onions, and seasonings. Mix lightly to keep it moist.

3. Shape & Bake👇

• Line a loaf pan (or baking sheet) with parchment paper for easy removal and crispy edges.

• Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape, placing it on the prepared pan.

4. Prepare the Glaze👇

• In a separate bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional Worcestershire sauce.

5. Apply Glaze & Finish Baking👇

• Bake the meatloaf for about 40 minutes unglazed, then spread the glaze evenly over the top.

• Return to oven and bake another 20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160 °F.

• Let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing—this helps keep it moist and easy to slice.

👉Pro Tips for Perfect Meatloaf

• Don’t overmix! Overworking the meat makes it tough. Mix just until combined.

• Lean vs. fat: Use 85–90% lean beef for moisture without grease.

• Glaze timing matters: Waiting to glaze avoids burning and ensures stickiness.

• Rest before slicing: Keeps juices intact and helps cleaner cuts.

Why This Recipe Works🤔

• Moist & tender: Milk-soaked fillers and minimal mixing keep the meatloaf juicy.

• Flavor depth: Sautéed aromatics, seasoning, and optional umami from Worcestershire bring balance.

• Caramelized glaze: Sweet-tangy topping adds irresistible texture and flavor contrast.

• Simple, family-favorite: Uses pantry staples and classic flavor profiles everyone loves.

Final Thoughts🙂

This Best Meatloaf Recipe with Sweet & Tangy Glaze elevates a timeless comfort dish with a perfect balance of flavor, tenderness, and nostalgic satisfaction. Whether you're planning a cozy dinner or meal prepping, this meatloaf will shine.

👉 Try it, serve it with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies, and

 share your experience in the comments!

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