American Meatloaf with Sweet Ketchup Glaze

Introduction

American meatloaf, a comfort food staple, is a classic dish that evokes memories of family dinners and cozy evenings. This recipe elevates the traditional meatloaf with a sweet ketchup glaze that adds a touch of tangy sweetness, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite. Simple to make and endlessly adaptable, this meatloaf is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.

American Meatloaf with Sweet Ketchup Glaze: A Recipe Guide

What You’ll Need: Ingredients

Here’s a list of the essential ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious meatloaf:

• 2 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend is ideal for flavor and moisture)
• 1 cup Bread Crumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 1/2 cup Milk
• 1 large Egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup Onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup Green Bell Pepper, finely chopped (optional)
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 tsp Dried Thyme
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Sweet Ketchup Glaze Ingredients:

• 1 cup Ketchup
• 2 tbsp Brown Sugar
• 1 tbsp White Vinegar
• 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Meatloaf

1. Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, egg, onion, bell pepper (if using), garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
3. Shape the meatloaf: Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a lightly greased loaf pan.
4. Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
5. Glaze the meatloaf: Spread half of the ketchup glaze evenly over the meatloaf.
6. Bake: Bake for 60 minutes.
7. Add remaining glaze: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
8. Continue baking: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it is fully cooked.
9. Rest: Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.

Tips and Variations

• Breadcrumb Alternatives: If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers or rolled oats.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other finely chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spice it Up: For a spicier meatloaf, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
• Serve with: Meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Conclusion

This American meatloaf recipe with a sweet ketchup glaze is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can easily create a delicious and comforting meal that the whole family will love. Enjoy this classic dish and feel free to customize it to your own preferences. Happy cooking!