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Meatloaf has long held a cherished place in the hearts and homes of families across America. This classic comfort food is not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile, allowing for a range of flavor profiles and ingredient variations. At its core, meatloaf is a simple amalgamation of ground meat and binding agents, shaped into a loaf and baked to perfection. Yet, when you add a zesty glaze, the dish transforms into something extraordinary, offering a sweet and tangy contrast that elevates the savory richness of the meatloaf itself.

Classic Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Savory Classic Meatloaf featuring a zesty glaze. This timeless dish combines ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, and a medley of aromatic ingredients for rich flavor and tender texture. The zesty glaze, made from ketchup and Worcestershire sauce, adds a sweet and tangy twist. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this meatloaf is easy to prepare and sure to satisfy your family. Learn how to create this hearty favorite with step-by-step instructions and tips!
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Ingredients
  

1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20)

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 cup whole milk

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg, lightly beaten

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon dried thyme

½ teaspoon dried oregano

¼ cup ketchup (for meatloaf mixture)

For the Tangy Glaze:

⅓ cup ketchup

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon mustard

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

    Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and panko breadcrumbs. Pour in the milk, then add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, lightly beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, and ¼ cup of ketchup. Using your hands, mix all the ingredients gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

      Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixed meat to the prepared loaf pan. Shape the mixture into a loaf form, ensuring it is evenly distributed and slightly packed to eliminate any air pockets.

        Make the Tangy Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup of ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and mustard until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

          Add the Glaze: Pour half of the tangy glaze mixture over the top of the meatloaf. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.

            Bake the Meatloaf: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (70°C).

              Glaze the Meatloaf Again: After about 40 minutes of baking, brush the reserved glaze over the top of the meatloaf for an extra layer of flavor and to keep it moist.

                Let It Rest: Upon finishing baking, carefully take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy slice.

                  Serve and Enjoy: Slice the meatloaf and serve it alongside your favorite sides, such as creamy mashed potatoes and crispy green beans. For an added kick, drizzle any remaining glaze over the meatloaf slices before serving.

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Servings: 6

                      Presentation Tips: Serve the meatloaf on a rustic wooden board, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme and accompanied by colorful vegetable sides for an appealing plate.