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Never-Dry Meatloaf Recipe Easy Cozy Tangy Ketchup Glaze Perfect

never-dry meatloaf - featured image

A tender, juicy meatloaf with a tangy ketchup glaze that stays moist and flavorful, perfect for cozy dinners and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20)
  • 3/4 cup (about 90g) breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) milk (whole milk preferred)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion (about 1 small onion), sautéed
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) ketchup (preferably tangy brand like Heinz)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes). Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Whisk these together until well blended.
  4. Stir in the breadcrumbs, then add the cooled onion and garlic mixture. Mix gently, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
  5. Add the ground beef to the bowl. Using your hands or a spatula, mix carefully to combine without overworking the meat.
  6. Transfer the mixture into your loaf pan or shape it by hand on a baking sheet. Pat it down so it’s compact but not overly dense.
  7. In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth. Spread half of this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  8. Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes. Halfway through baking (around 22 minutes), spread the remaining glaze on top.
  9. Check for doneness: the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) or juices run clear when pierced.
  10. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to avoid a dense loaf. Sauté onions and garlic before mixing to add sweetness and prevent sogginess. Apply glaze in two stages to avoid burning and achieve a caramelized topping. Rest meatloaf 10 minutes before slicing for best texture. Tent with foil if glaze darkens too quickly.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, never dry meatloaf, ketchup glaze, comfort food, easy meatloaf, cozy dinner, weeknight meal