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The Best Ever Classic Juicy Meatloaf with Perfect Ketchup Glaze

Close-up of a juicy meatloaf, sliced and topped generously with bright red ketchup glaze.

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Make a tender, moist, and flavorful classic meatloaf topped with a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but comforting enough for any family gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Panko)
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup ketchup (for the mix)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup ketchup (for the glaze)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for the glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for the glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in the milk for 5 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the soaked breadcrumbs mixture, ground beef, beaten egg, chopped onion, 1/4 cup ketchup, salt, pepper, thyme, and garlic powder.
  4. Mix the ingredients gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
  5. Shape the mixture into a loaf shape (about 9×5 inches) and place it on your prepared baking sheet or in the loaf pan.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the glaze ingredients: 1/4 cup ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
  7. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  8. Bake for 60 to 75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  9. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the meatloaf juicy.

Notes

  • For an extra moist meatloaf, use a mix of ground beef and ground pork or veal.
  • If you prefer not to use a loaf pan, shaping the loaf on a foil-lined baking sheet allows excess fat to drain away.
  • Baking on a rack set inside a baking sheet will help the bottom crust stay less soggy.

Nutrition