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A freshly baked easy meatloaf with a shiny, rich ketchup glaze on top.

Easy Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze

This recipe provides a simple yet delicious way to make a classic meatloaf with a tangy, sweet ketchup glaze that adds a perfect finish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings 6 slices
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking Sheet
  • Loaf Pan (optional)
  • Small Skillet
  • Large Bowl
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

Meatloaf

  • 1.5 lbs ground beef 80/20 lean
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs panko or regular
  • 0.25 cup milk
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

Ketchup Glaze

  • 0.5 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar light or dark
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried mustard or a pinch of prepared mustard

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or foil, or lightly greasing a loaf pan.
  • Sauté the finely diced onion in a small skillet over medium heat until softened, then let it cool slightly.

Mixing and Baking

  • Gently combine the ground beef, cooled onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, parsley, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a large bowl, mixing until just combined.
  • Shape the meatloaf mixture into a rectangular loaf on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).

Glaze and Finish

  • While the meatloaf bakes, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and dried mustard in a small bowl to create the glaze.
  • After the initial baking, remove the meatloaf, brush two-thirds of the glaze over it, and return it to the oven for another 15-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the glaze is caramelized.
  • Once cooked, remove the meatloaf and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to ensure a moist and flavorful result.

Notes

For best results, avoid overmixing the meatloaf mixture to keep it tender and moist. Letting the meatloaf rest after baking is crucial for a juicy outcome.