Name: Momma’s Classic Meatloaf with Sweet Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef 85/15 or leaner preferred; 1/2 cup diced white onion; 1 cup plain bread crumbs; 1/2 cup milk (whole, 2%, 1%, or skim); 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1/2 cup ketchup; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

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If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, you have to try Momma’s Classic Meatloaf with Sweet Glaze Recipe. This dish is the perfect balance of hearty, flavorful ground beef seasoned just right and topped with a sticky, sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to impress guests, offering that classic homemade vibe that makes every bite feel like a family tradition. Trust me, once you make this recipe, it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface for making a dish. In the center, there is a clear glass bowl filled with two layers of raw ground meat, reddish in color and finely textured. Around the bowl are measuring cups and small glass bowls holding various ingredients: a measuring cup with white milk at the bottom left, a whole white egg to its left, a small glass bowl of mixed dried herbs and red flakes at the top left, a measuring cup full of pale yellow breadcrumbs near the center left, a small spoon with white salt above the meat bowl, another measuring cup filled with thick red ketchup to the right, a small spoon of dark soy sauce below the ketchup, a small glass bowl with light brown sugar crystals on the upper right side, and a whole white onion with dry root strings on the bottom right. All utensils have wooden handles. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

All the ingredients in this recipe are straightforward pantry staples, yet each one plays a key role in building flavor, texture, and that irresistible savory-sweet balance.

2 pounds ground beef 85/15 or leaner preferred: Provides the hearty base with just the right fat content for moisture and flavor.
1/2 cup diced white onion: Adds sweetness and a bit of crunch that melts into the meat while cooking.
1 cup plain bread crumbs: Acts as a binder to hold the meatloaf together without drying it out.
1/2 cup milk (whole, 2%, 1%, or skim): Keeps the meatloaf moist and tender.
1 large egg: Essential for binding the ingredients to create that perfect sliceable texture.
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Injects depth and a savory umami punch.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a subtle herbaceous warmth.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings Italian-inspired aromatic notes.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Offers gentle heat and complexity.
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Kicks up the flavor with a mild spicy edge.
For the glaze: 1/2 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce blended to create a luscious, sticky topping that finishes the meatloaf with sweet tanginess.

How to Make Momma’s Classic Meatloaf with Sweet Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the meatloaf doesn’t stick and makes for easy cleanup later on.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 pounds of ground beef, diced onion, bread crumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, dried basil, dried oregano, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Use clean hands to gently knead everything together until just combined. Don’t overmix, or you’ll risk a dense texture. The key here is to distribute the flavors evenly while keeping the loaf tender.

Step 3: Shape the Loaf and Begin Baking

Shape the meat mixture into a loaf about 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 2 inches tall, then place it in the center of your prepared baking dish. Pop it into the oven and bake for 45 minutes, letting the flavor meld and the edges start to brown.

Step 4: Prepare and Glaze the Meatloaf

While your meatloaf matures in the oven, whisk together the glaze ingredients: ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. After the initial bake, remove your meatloaf and brush this sweet glaze generously over the top. This step turns it from a simple meat dish into a sticky, caramelized masterpiece.

Step 5: Finish Baking at a Higher Temperature

Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (205°C) and return the glazed meatloaf to bake for another 15 minutes. This final blast of heat caramelizes the glaze and ensures your meatloaf is cooked perfectly through—aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee safety and juiciness.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Once out of the oven, let the meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This waiting time locks in the juices and makes slicing a breeze without crumbling, giving you perfectly shaped slices every time.

How to Serve Momma’s Classic Meatloaf with Sweet Glaze Recipe

A white plate holds a meal with three main layers: bright green peas with a fresh texture on the left, creamy mashed potatoes with a smooth texture and a small pool of melted butter in the middle, and a thick slice of brown meatloaf with a shiny, dark red sauce on top on the right. A fork in the foreground lifts a small piece of the meatloaf showing a juicy, grainy texture with bits of sauce. The background shows more meatloaf and a bowl of leafy salad on a white marbled surface. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a little fresh pop, sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the sliced meatloaf right before serving. The green contrast isn’t just pretty to look at; it adds a fresh herbal note that lightens the rich flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This meatloaf pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green peas for a classic comfort combo. You could also serve it alongside a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables to keep things fresh and balanced on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, use the meatloaf slices as a hearty sandwich filling on toasted buns with a little extra glaze or your favorite condiments. Or turn it into a meatloaf muffin for individual servings that work great for parties or lunchboxes. Either way, the glaze ensures every bite packs that special sweet-savory punch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover meatloaf should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container and refrigerated. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making it perfect for quick reheated meals during the week.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this meatloaf freezes beautifully. Wrap the whole loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap, then a layer of foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To warm up leftovers, place slices on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil to retain moisture, and heat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Microwaving works in a pinch but can dry out the meat.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can make a lighter meatloaf, but you might want to add a bit of olive oil or an extra egg to keep the texture tender and moist since these meats are leaner.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

A mixture of soy sauce and a splash of balsamic vinegar works well as a substitute, giving that same savory umami complexity that Worcestershire brings.

Is it okay to prep the meatloaf the night before?

Yes! You can mix and shape the meatloaf and keep it covered in the fridge overnight, then add the glaze and bake fresh the next day. It’s a great way to save time.

Why is resting the meatloaf important?

Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, preventing your slices from falling apart or drying out. It also makes for cleaner, easier slicing.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely. Substitute the plain bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The meatloaf will still hold together nicely and taste fantastic.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so heartwarming about sitting down to a plate of Momma’s Classic Meatloaf with Sweet Glaze Recipe. This dish is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in the most delicious way. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, give this recipe a try—you’ll quickly see why it’s a cherished favorite and a true kitchen classic.