Classic Beef Meatloaf with Tomato Glaze

Introduction

Few dishes capture the essence of classic comfort food better than a beef meatloaf with a tangy tomato glaze. It’s hearty, wholesome, and timeless—a family favorite that has been gracing dinner tables for generations. With tender, juicy ground beef seasoned with onions, garlic, and herbs, then topped with a slightly sweet and tangy tomato glaze, this meatloaf strikes the perfect balance of savory and comforting flavors.

This recipe delivers everything you want from a meatloaf: a moist interior, bold flavors, and a golden, caramelized glaze that ties it all together.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s nostalgic and deeply satisfying. It reminds me of traditional home-cooked meals where the aroma of baked meatloaf fills the kitchen. The tomato glaze is what truly makes it irresistible—it adds a glossy finish and just the right amount of tangy sweetness to complement the savory beef. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that works just as well for Sunday family dinners as it does for weekday leftovers.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This meatloaf is a must-try because it:

• Uses simple pantry ingredients yet delivers incredible flavor.
• Is budget-friendly and feeds the whole family.
• Can be made ahead and frozen for later meals.
• Pairs perfectly with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans.

It’s truly a recipe that everyone should master—it’s a backbone of American comfort food.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Calories per serving: ~350–400 kcal (varies by portion)
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Main Course

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs (900 g) ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
• 1 tsp paprika

For the Tomato Glaze:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for smokiness)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix all meatloaf ingredients until just combined.
3. Shape into a loaf and place on a baking sheet or loaf pan.
4. Mix glaze ingredients and spread half over the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45 minutes, brush with remaining glaze, and bake another 15 minutes.
6. Rest before slicing and serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.

Step 2: Soften Breadcrumbs

• In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with milk. Let them soak for a few minutes until softened. This keeps the meatloaf moist.

Step 3: Mix Meatloaf Ingredients

• In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
• Gently mix with clean hands or a spoon until just combined—do not overmix, as it can make the meatloaf tough.

Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf

• Shape the mixture into a loaf form and place it on the prepared baking sheet or into a loaf pan.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

• In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and smoked paprika.
• Spread half the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Step 6: Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
• Remove, brush with remaining glaze, and return to the oven for another 15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 7: Rest and Serve

• Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and prevents crumbling.

How to Serve

• Slice the meatloaf and serve with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh side salad.
• Leftover meatloaf makes delicious sandwiches the next day!

Additional Recipe Tips

• For extra flavor, sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the meat mixture.
• Use a mix of beef and pork for an even juicier, more flavorful loaf.
• Shape the meatloaf on a baking sheet (instead of a loaf pan) for more caramelized edges.
• Don’t skip resting time—this ensures neat slices.

Variations

• Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf: Add a layer of mozzarella or cheddar cheese in the center.
• BBQ Glaze: Replace tomato glaze with your favorite barbecue sauce.
• Vegetable-Boosted: Add grated carrots or zucchini for more nutrition.
• Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the glaze for extra heat.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store cooled meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer (Unbaked): Assemble meatloaf, wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
• Freezer (Cooked): Freeze cooked slices or whole loaf for up to 3 months. Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Loaf pan or baking sheet
• Parchment paper (if baking free-form)
• Meat thermometer (for accurate doneness)

Conclusion

Classic Beef Meatloaf with Tomato Glaze is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and family-approved. The tender beef paired with a sweet and tangy glaze makes this dish unforgettable. It’s affordable, versatile, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and Sunday gatherings. Once you try it, this meatloaf is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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Classic Beef Meatloaf with Tomato Glaze

Author: admin Cuisine: American Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 60 mins Total Time 1 hr 15 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 400 kcal

Description

Few dishes capture the essence of classic comfort food better than a beef meatloaf with a tangy tomato glaze. It’s hearty, wholesome, and timeless—a family favorite that has been gracing dinner tables for generations.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs (900 g)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
• ¹⁄₂ cup whole milk
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
• 1 tsp paprika

For the Tomato Glaze:

• ¹⁄₂ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• ¹⁄₂ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for smokiness)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Oven : Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. Step 2: Soften Breadcrumbs : In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with milk. Let them soak for a few minutes until softened. This keeps the meatloaf moist.
3. Step 3: Mix Meatloaf Ingredients : In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Gently mix with clean hands or a spoon until just combined—do not overmix, as it can make the meatloaf tough.
4. Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf : Shape the mixture into a loaf form and place it on the prepared baking sheet or into a loaf pan.
5. Step 5: Make the Glaze : In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and smoked paprika. Spread half the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Step 6: Bake : Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove, brush with remaining glaze, and return to the oven for another 15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Step 7: Rest and Serve : Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and prevents crumbling.

Keywords: Classic Beef Meatloaf with Tomato Glaze