Name: Ultimate Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 75 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 lb ground turkey; 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat); 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 large eggs; 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; to taste salt and pepper; 1 cup ketchup (divided); 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Looking for the ultimate comfort food? You’ve found it! This ultimate meatloaf with ketchup glaze is easy to prepare and will please your whole family. Packed with delicious flavors and simple ingredients, it’s both satisfying and comforting. In this post, I’ll share step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and variations to suit your taste. Let’s get started on making a meal everyone will love!

$- 1 lb (450g) ground beef - 1 lb (450g) ground turkey - 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat) - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 2 large eggs - ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup ketchup (divided) - 2 tablespoons brown sugar - Additional glaze options such as BBQ sauce or honey mustard The main ingredients form the heart of this dish. Ground beef and turkey give it a nice balance of flavor and texture. The breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese add depth and help bind everything together. Seasonings and add-ins are key. Onion and garlic bring a rich aroma. Eggs act as a binder, while parsley adds a fresh touch. Worcestershire sauce and herbs like oregano and thyme elevate the flavor profile. Don't forget salt and pepper for seasoning! The glaze is what makes this meatloaf special. Ketchup mixed with brown sugar creates a sweet and tangy layer on top. You can also try other glaze options to mix things up! {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even cooking. 2. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the sides. This makes it easy to lift the meatloaf out later. 3. In a large bowl, mix together 1 lb of ground beef and 1 lb of ground turkey. Add 1 cup of breadcrumbs and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. 4. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until it is well blended. 1. Add 1 small chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 large eggs, and ¼ cup of chopped parsley to the meat mix. 2. Pour in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and salt and pepper to taste. 3. Mix everything together thoroughly. This ensures every bite is tasty. 4. Transfer the meat mixture into the loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf with your hands. Use a spatula to make the top smooth. 5. In a separate bowl, mix ¾ cup of ketchup with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. This is your glaze. 6. Brush half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Save the rest for later. 1. Place the meatloaf in your preheated oven. Bake it for 1 hour. 2. After 1 hour, take it out and spread the remaining glaze on top. 3. Put it back in the oven for another 15 minutes. The meatloaf is done when its internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). 4. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy. 5. Serve warm with your favorite sides. Drizzle extra glaze over the slices if you like. To keep your meatloaf from being dry, do not overmix it. Mix just until the meat and ingredients blend. Another way to add moisture is by using eggs and breadcrumbs. They help hold in the juices. You can also add grated vegetables like zucchini for extra moisture and flavor. When slicing meatloaf, use a sharp knife. This ensures clean cuts. Aim for slices about an inch thick for great presentation. Serving suggestions include creamy mashed potatoes and roasted veggies. Drizzle some extra ketchup glaze over the slices for added flavor. One mistake is overmixing the meat. This can lead to a tough texture. Another mistake is not letting the meatloaf rest after cooking. Resting for ten minutes helps keep the juices in. This makes it easier to slice and taste even better. Pro Tips Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean cuts of meat to keep the meatloaf moist without excess fat. A mix of ground turkey and beef balances flavor and health. Rest Before Slicing: Allow the meatloaf to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and makes for cleaner slices. Experiment with Spices: Feel free to customize the herbs and spices to your taste. Adding smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can give your meatloaf a unique kick. Make Ahead: Prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. This allows flavors to meld and can save time on busy days. {{image_2}} You can easily swap the ground beef and turkey in this meatloaf. Try using ground chicken or pork for a different taste. If you want a healthier option, consider ground lamb for a richer flavor. For those with gluten concerns, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. Both options work well and keep the meatloaf moist. Want to add more taste? You can mix in veggies like bell peppers and carrots. Chopped mushrooms add a nice earthiness too. They keep the meatloaf juicy and add extra nutrients. You can also experiment with different sauces. Try barbecue sauce or spicy mustard in the glaze. Each choice gives a unique twist to the classic meatloaf. After you bake your meatloaf, think about how to serve it. Meatloaf sandwiches make a great lunch. Just slice it and add your favorite toppings. You can also serve meatloaf over creamy mashed potatoes. This makes a comforting meal. Drizzle extra ketchup glaze on top for added flavor. Enjoy your tasty family meal! To keep your meatloaf fresh, cool it down quickly. Let it sit at room temperature for no more than two hours. Once cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge. This way, it stays moist and tasty. For reheating, I recommend using the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place your meatloaf slices in a baking dish. Cover them with foil to avoid drying out. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. It can dry out the meatloaf if heated too long. If you want to save meatloaf for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the meatloaf cool completely. Next, slice it into portions. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This helps prevent freezer burn. Make sure to label the bags with the date. When you are ready to enjoy it, take it out of the freezer. Place it in the fridge overnight to thaw. For quick thawing, you can use the microwave. Just be sure to use the defrost setting. This will help keep the meatloaf moist. In the fridge, your meatloaf lasts about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to check for any off smells or changes in texture. If you freeze it, it can last for up to 3 months. For the best taste, try to eat it within 1 month. Always store it properly to keep it fresh and tasty! The secret to a moist meatloaf lies in the ingredients and cooking method. Here are some tips to keep it juicy: - Use a mix of meats: I like to use both ground beef and turkey. This blend adds flavor and moisture. - Add moisture-rich ingredients: The breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese help retain moisture. They soak up the juices as it cooks. - Don't overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf. - Let it rest: After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making each slice tender and moist. Yes, you can make meatloaf ahead of time. Here’s how: - Pre-preparation: You can mix the meatloaf ingredients and shape it into a loaf. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. - Freezing: To freeze, prepare the meatloaf, but do not bake it. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. The meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safe eating. Here are some tips: - Use a meat thermometer: Insert it into the center of the meatloaf. This ensures it is cooked through. - Check the juices: If the juices run clear, it’s a good sign that the meatloaf is done. - Adjust cooking times: If your meatloaf is larger or smaller, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Always rely on the thermometer for accuracy. This blog post covered everything you need to make a great meatloaf. You learned about key ingredients like ground beef and turkey, plus how to add flavor with seasonings. The step-by-step instructions guide you from mixing to baking, ensuring a juicy result. I shared tips to avoid common mistakes and offered fun variations. Remember, this recipe is flexible. Feel free to change the ingredients or toppings. Enjoy your meatloaf, and happy cooking!$

Why I Love This Recipe

Flavorful Combination: The mix of ground beef and turkey results in a deliciously balanced flavor and texture that everyone will love.
Easy Preparation: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Customizable Glaze: The ketchup glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish, and you can easily adjust it to suit your taste preferences.
Comfort Food Classic: Meatloaf is a nostalgic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 lb (450g) ground turkey
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Add-ins

1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 large eggs
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Glaze Ingredients

1 cup ketchup (divided)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
Additional glaze options such as BBQ sauce or honey mustard

The main ingredients form the heart of this dish. Ground beef and turkey give it a nice balance of flavor and texture. The breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese add depth and help bind everything together.

Seasonings and add-ins are key. Onion and garlic bring a rich aroma. Eggs act as a binder, while parsley adds a fresh touch. Worcestershire sauce and herbs like oregano and thyme elevate the flavor profile. Don't forget salt and pepper for seasoning!

The glaze is what makes this meatloaf special. Ketchup mixed with brown sugar creates a sweet and tangy layer on top. You can also try other glaze options to mix things up!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even cooking.

2. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the sides. This makes it easy to lift the meatloaf out later.

3. In a large bowl, mix together 1 lb of ground beef and 1 lb of ground turkey. Add 1 cup of breadcrumbs and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese.

4. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until it is well blended.

Shaping and Glazing

1. Add 1 small chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 large eggs, and ¼ cup of chopped parsley to the meat mix.

2. Pour in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and salt and pepper to taste.

3. Mix everything together thoroughly. This ensures every bite is tasty.

4. Transfer the meat mixture into the loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf with your hands. Use a spatula to make the top smooth.

5. In a separate bowl, mix ¾ cup of ketchup with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. This is your glaze.

6. Brush half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Save the rest for later.

Baking Instructions

1. Place the meatloaf in your preheated oven. Bake it for 1 hour.

2. After 1 hour, take it out and spread the remaining glaze on top.

3. Put it back in the oven for another 15 minutes. The meatloaf is done when its internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

4. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy.

5. Serve warm with your favorite sides. Drizzle extra glaze over the slices if you like.

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Meatloaf

To keep your meatloaf from being dry, do not overmix it. Mix just until the meat and ingredients blend. Another way to add moisture is by using eggs and breadcrumbs. They help hold in the juices. You can also add grated vegetables like zucchini for extra moisture and flavor.

Slicing and Serving

When slicing meatloaf, use a sharp knife. This ensures clean cuts. Aim for slices about an inch thick for great presentation. Serving suggestions include creamy mashed potatoes and roasted veggies. Drizzle some extra ketchup glaze over the slices for added flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One mistake is overmixing the meat. This can lead to a tough texture. Another mistake is not letting the meatloaf rest after cooking. Resting for ten minutes helps keep the juices in. This makes it easier to slice and taste even better.

Pro Tips

Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean cuts of meat to keep the meatloaf moist without excess fat. A mix of ground turkey and beef balances flavor and health.
Rest Before Slicing: Allow the meatloaf to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and makes for cleaner slices.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to customize the herbs and spices to your taste. Adding smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can give your meatloaf a unique kick.
Make Ahead: Prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. This allows flavors to meld and can save time on busy days.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can easily swap the ground beef and turkey in this meatloaf. Try using ground chicken or pork for a different taste. If you want a healthier option, consider ground lamb for a richer flavor. For those with gluten concerns, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. Both options work well and keep the meatloaf moist.

Flavor Enhancements

Want to add more taste? You can mix in veggies like bell peppers and carrots. Chopped mushrooms add a nice earthiness too. They keep the meatloaf juicy and add extra nutrients. You can also experiment with different sauces. Try barbecue sauce or spicy mustard in the glaze. Each choice gives a unique twist to the classic meatloaf.

Additional Serving Ideas

After you bake your meatloaf, think about how to serve it. Meatloaf sandwiches make a great lunch. Just slice it and add your favorite toppings. You can also serve meatloaf over creamy mashed potatoes. This makes a comforting meal. Drizzle extra ketchup glaze on top for added flavor. Enjoy your tasty family meal!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your meatloaf fresh, cool it down quickly. Let it sit at room temperature for no more than two hours. Once cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge. This way, it stays moist and tasty.

For reheating, I recommend using the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place your meatloaf slices in a baking dish. Cover them with foil to avoid drying out. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. It can dry out the meatloaf if heated too long.

Freezing Guidelines

If you want to save meatloaf for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the meatloaf cool completely. Next, slice it into portions. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This helps prevent freezer burn. Make sure to label the bags with the date.

When you are ready to enjoy it, take it out of the freezer. Place it in the fridge overnight to thaw. For quick thawing, you can use the microwave. Just be sure to use the defrost setting. This will help keep the meatloaf moist.

Duration of Freshness

In the fridge, your meatloaf lasts about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to check for any off smells or changes in texture. If you freeze it, it can last for up to 3 months. For the best taste, try to eat it within 1 month. Always store it properly to keep it fresh and tasty!

FAQs

What is the secret to a moist meatloaf?

The secret to a moist meatloaf lies in the ingredients and cooking method. Here are some tips to keep it juicy:

Use a mix of meats: I like to use both ground beef and turkey. This blend adds flavor and moisture.
Add moisture-rich ingredients: The breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese help retain moisture. They soak up the juices as it cooks.
Don't overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf.
Let it rest: After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making each slice tender and moist.

Can I make meatloaf in advance?

Yes, you can make meatloaf ahead of time. Here’s how:

Pre-preparation: You can mix the meatloaf ingredients and shape it into a loaf. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Freezing: To freeze, prepare the meatloaf, but do not bake it. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.

What temperature should meatloaf be cooked to?

The meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safe eating. Here are some tips:

Use a meat thermometer: Insert it into the center of the meatloaf. This ensures it is cooked through.
Check the juices: If the juices run clear, it’s a good sign that the meatloaf is done.
Adjust cooking times: If your meatloaf is larger or smaller, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Always rely on the thermometer for accuracy.

This blog post covered everything you need to make a great meatloaf. You learned about key ingredients like ground beef and turkey, plus how to add flavor with seasonings. The step-by-step instructions guide you from mixing to baking, ensuring a juicy result. I shared tips to avoid common mistakes and offered fun variations.

Remember, this recipe is flexible. Feel free to change the ingredients or toppings. Enjoy your meatloaf, and happy cookin