Ah, the good old meatloaf! A classic comfort food that warms our soul and fills our bellies. What makes a meatloaf truly stand out is its glaze. This recipe revolves around crafting the perfect all-beef meatloaf glaze that brings an exquisite balance of sweet and savory to your meatloaf, making it irresistibly delicious!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Equipments
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
How to Make All Beef Meatloaf Glaze – Step By Step
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly throughout, providing a juicy and tender result. While the oven heats up, you can start preparing your meat mixture.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together using your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are well integrated, forming a consistent meatloaf base.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the meat mixture into a baking dish. Shape it into a loaf form, ensuring it’s even throughout. This will ensure that it cooks evenly and looks great when served.
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. This glaze will caramelize beautifully on your meatloaf, creating a deliciously tangy and sweet crust.
Step 5: Glaze the Meatloaf
Pour the glaze mixture over the shaped meatloaf. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the top and sides, allowing the glaze to seep into the meat, enriching it with flavor as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake the Meatloaf
Place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake the meatloaf for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The glaze should be bubbly and slightly caramelized.
How to Serve All Beef Meatloaf Glaze
Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This resting period helps retain the juices within the meat. Slice the meatloaf and serve it with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
Here are some handy tips to make your meatloaf extraordinary: Always use fresh beef for the best flavor and texture. To avoid a dry loaf, don’t overmix the meat. Incorporate different flavors into the glaze, such as honey or sriracha, for a unique twist. Lastly, leaning on fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can freshen the flavor profile.
Pumped Up Protein: The High Protein Version
For those who are looking to boost their protein intake, consider adding 1/2 cup of shredded cheese or 1/4 cup of chopped bacon to the meat mixture. This not only adds flavor but increases the nutritional value of the dish. You can also serve alongside protein-rich side dishes such as quinoa or lentils.
Low Carb Delight: The Savvy Low Carb Version
Looking to cut down on carbs without sacrificing taste? Substitute the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds. They help hold the meatloaf together while keeping it low-carb. Serve with a side of roasted non-starchy vegetables like broccoli or brussels sprouts for a complete meal that aligns with your dietary preferences.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan on freezing the meatloaf, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in an oven at 350°F until warmed through.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of meat instead of beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken, although the flavor profile will vary.
- What can I use instead of brown sugar for a healthier glaze?
Honey or maple syrup can be used in moderation as an alternative sweetener.
- How do I know when my meatloaf is cooked?
Using a meat thermometer, ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Can I add vegetables to the meat mixture?
Yes, finely diced bell peppers or mushrooms can add texture and nutrition.
- Does the glaze need to be sweet?
Not necessarily – you can make a savory glaze using tomato paste and herbs if desired.
Wrap-Up and Call to Action
We hope you enjoy making and savoring this delightful all beef meatloaf glaze. It not only pleases your taste buds but also offers a comforting meal experience for your guests or family. If you love this recipe as much as we do, don’t forget to share your thoughts and photos in the comments below or tag us on social media! Happy cooking!
Irresistible All Beef Meatloaf Glaze
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- breadcrumbs
- egg
- milk
- small onion
- garlic
- Worcestershire sauce
- salt
- black pepper
Glaze
- ketchup
- brown sugar
- Dijon mustard
- apple cider vinegar
Instructions
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together.
- Transfer the meat mixture into a baking dish and shape it into a loaf form.
- In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
- Pour the glaze mixture over the shaped meatloaf and spread it evenly over the top and sides.
- Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).