Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze Recipe

Introduction

Few dishes embody the warmth and nostalgia of home-cooked comfort food quite like Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze. This timeless classic has been gracing American dinner tables for generations, and for good reason—it’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavor.

The hallmark of this recipe is its sweet and tangy ketchup glaze, which caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a shiny, sticky coating that complements the savory beef interior perfectly. Each slice is moist, tender, and bursting with that familiar taste that takes you straight back to Sunday dinners at grandma’s house.

This version sticks to tradition while ensuring a balance of texture and flavor, giving you a meatloaf that’s comforting, delicious, and reliable every single time.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s comfort on a plate. The ketchup glaze is simple but so effective—it creates a contrast of tangy sweetness against the rich, savory beef. It’s not fancy, but it doesn’t need to be. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the nostalgia it carries.

It also makes fantastic leftovers—sliced cold for sandwiches, reheated with mashed potatoes, or crumbled into pasta sauce. The versatility, along with its crowd-pleasing flavor, is why this dish holds such a special place in my kitchen.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Classic & Timeless: A recipe that never goes out of style.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable pantry staples.
• Family Favorite: Loved by both kids and adults.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Great for sandwiches or meal prep.
• Balanced Flavor: The savory loaf paired with tangy glaze is unbeatable.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55–65 minutes
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour 20 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Calories per serving: ~390 kcal

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Main Dish
• Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs (900g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Ketchup Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp mustard (yellow or Dijon, optional for depth)

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, eggs, milk, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley. Mix gently with clean hands or a spatula until just combined (do not overmix).

Step 3: Shape the Loaf

Transfer mixture into the prepared loaf pan or shape into a freeform loaf on a baking sheet.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and mustard (if using).

Step 5: Glaze & Bake

Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 6: Finish the Glaze

Brush the remaining glaze on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a shiny finish.

Step 7: Rest & Serve

Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it moist.

How to Serve

• Classic: With creamy mashed potatoes and green beans.
• Family-style: Pair with mac and cheese, roasted carrots, or corn on the cob.
• Leftovers: Slice thin for sandwiches with mayo and pickles.

Recipe Tips

• Use 80/20 beef for moisture and flavor.
• Do not pack the mixture too tightly—keep it light for tenderness.
• Always let the loaf rest before slicing.
• Try sautéing onions and garlic before adding them for deeper flavor.
• Double the glaze if you love extra sauciness.

Variations

• Turkey Meatloaf: Use ground turkey and chicken broth instead of beef.
• Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf: Add mozzarella or cheddar in the center before baking.
• BBQ Meatloaf: Swap the ketchup glaze for BBQ sauce.
• Spicy Version: Add cayenne, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the meat mixture.
• Vegetable-Loaded: Mix in grated zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer (Uncooked): Wrap shaped loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Freezer (Cooked): Freeze whole or sliced loaf for up to 3 months. Reheat at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Loaf pan or baking sheet
• Meat thermometer
• Small bowl (for glaze)

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze is a true American classic that proves simple food can be extraordinary. With its juicy interior and sweet-savory glaze, it’s the ultimate comfort meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight or serving guests for Sunday supper, this recipe never fails to satisfy.

It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and full of nostalgia—everything a great homestyle meal should be. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it has stood the test of time as one of the most beloved recipes of all.