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Oven-Baked Meatloaf with Tomato Glaze feature image

Oven-Baked Meatloaf with Tomato Glaze

A classic comfort dish featuring a tender and flavorful meatloaf baked to perfection and topped with a sweet and tangy tomato glaze. This hearty main course pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or fresh salads.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Resting time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Course Comfort Food, Main Dishes
Cuisine American
Servings 8 people
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Loaf pan or baking sheet For shaping the meatloaf; line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  • 1 Mixing Bowl For combining ingredients gently.
  • 1 Meat Thermometer Ensures safe internal temperature.
  • 1 Basting brush For applying the tomato glaze evenly.
  • 1 Aluminum foil To cover the meatloaf during baking and resting.

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ lbs Ground beef (80/20 blend) Leaner blends require extra moisture.
  • Optional ½ lb Ground pork or turkey Adds richness or lightens the loaf.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned) Soaked in milk for added moisture.
  • ¼ cup Milk For hydrating breadcrumbs; prevents dryness.
  • 1 medium Onion (finely chopped) Sautéed briefly for sweetness and soft texture.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Adds depth of flavor.
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder.
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Enhances savory notes.
  • Salt To taste - Season generously to enhance flavor.
  • Pepper To taste - Freshly ground for better flavor.
  • Optional - Fresh parsley (chopped) Brightens the flavor and adds freshness.
  • ½ cup Ketchup Base for the tomato glaze.
  • 2 tbsp Brown sugar Adds sweetness to balance acidity.
  • 1 tbsp Mustard Tangy flavor complements the ketchup.
  • 1 tsp Vinegar Enhances tanginess in the glaze.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Recipe

    Prepare Ingredients:

    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Soak breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes until softened. Sauté onions and garlic in a small amount of oil until softened but not browned.

    Mix the Meatloaf:

    • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, sautéed onions and garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and optional parsley. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture tender.

    Shape the Loaf:

    • Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a freeform loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Aim for a loaf about 8–10 inches long and 3–4 inches wide for even cooking.

    Prepare the Tomato Glaze:

    • In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar. Set aside.

    Apply Initial Glaze and Bake:

    • Brush half of the glaze over the top of the uncooked meatloaf. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.

    Add Remaining Glaze:

    • After 45 minutes, brush the remaining glaze over the loaf. Continue baking for another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) for poultry-based loaves.

    Rest and Slice:

    • Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Tent loosely with foil to retain warmth without trapping steam. Slice and serve warm.

    Notes

      • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Freeze slices for up to 3 months in freezer-safe bags.
      • Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
      • Healthier Option: Use lean ground turkey or chicken and reduce the amount of brown sugar in the glaze.
     
     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. What are the key ingredients for a classic tomato glaze?
      • Ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar create a balanced sweet-tangy glaze.
       
    2. How long should meatloaf be cooked?
      • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 60–75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) for poultry.
       
    3. Can you incorporate potatoes into a meatloaf dish?
      • Serve mashed or roasted potatoes as a side, or mix shredded potatoes into the meatloaf for added moisture.
       
    4. What is the best way to ensure a moist meatloaf?
      • Use fat-rich ground beef, soak breadcrumbs in milk, and cover the loaf loosely with foil during baking.
       
    5. How can breadcrumbs be effectively used?
      • Breadcrumbs act as a binder and absorb liquid, keeping the meatloaf tender. Seasoned breadcrumbs add extra flavor.
       
    6. Is ketchup or tomato sauce better for the glaze?
      • Ketchup provides sweetness and thickness, while tomato sauce offers a lighter, tangier option.
     
     

    Tips & Tricks

    • Flavor Enhancement: Add grated carrots or finely diced bell peppers to the meat mixture for natural sweetness and extra moisture.
    • Presentation: Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh herbs for added color and freshness.
    • Leftovers: Use leftover slices in sandwiches, wraps, or breakfast dishes like hash with eggs.
     
     

    Plating and Garnishing

    • Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.
    • Serving Style: Slice the meatloaf neatly and arrange on a platter with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad. Drizzle extra glaze over the slices if desired.
    • Sides: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, roasted carrots, or steamed green beans for a balanced meal.
     
    Keyword Comfort Food, Meatloaf, Tomato Glaze