This meatloaf is super tasty with its sweet and tangy balsamic glaze! It’s juicy and packed with flavor, making it a hit at any dinner table.
Who knew meatloaf could be so exciting, right? I love how the glaze gives it a shiny finish. It’s perfect with mashed potatoes or a side of veggies. Yum! 🥔🥦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: While I like using a mix of beef and pork for added flavor, you can go all beef or even use turkey for a lighter option. If you’re avoiding red meat, ground turkey or chicken works well too.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs give great texture, but if you’re gluten-free, consider using gluten-free breadcrumbs or rolled oats. I sometimes crush crackers for a fun twist!
Milk: Whole milk is perfect for moisture, but you can swap it for any plant-based milk if lactose is a concern. I’ve used almond milk, and it works just fine!
Balsamic Vinegar: If you don’t have balsamic on hand, red wine vinegar could work as a substitute. Just be mindful it’s sharper, so you might want to add a touch more sugar.
How Do I Keep My Meatloaf Tender and Moist?
A common concern when making meatloaf is keeping it from becoming dry or dense. Here are some tips:
- **Don’t overmix:** Combine the ingredients gently until just mixed. Overworking can lead to a tougher texture.
- **Breadcrumb soaking:** Soaking breadcrumbs in milk ensures they’re moist, which adds to the meatloaf’s moisture.
- **Resting time:** Allow the meatloaf to rest after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making it juicier when sliced.
By following these simple steps, you’ll end up with a meatloaf that is not only delicious but also tender and juicy every time!
Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For the Balsamic Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 1 hour to bake, which includes a resting time after it comes out of the oven. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes until it’s ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will make sure your meatloaf cooks evenly and comes out delicious.
2. Prep the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in 1 cup of milk. Let them sit for about 5 minutes, making sure they absorb all the moisture—this will keep the meatloaf nice and juicy!
3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and chopped parsley. Gently mix everything together, being careful not to overmix – this keeps your meatloaf tender and tasty!
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking pan or a loaf pan. Make it even so it cooks well throughout.
5. Make the Balsamic Glaze:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. This delicious glaze is what makes your meatloaf shine!
6. Apply the Glaze:
Brush half of the balsamic glaze generously over the meatloaf, making sure it gets well coated.
7. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in your preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen!
8. Final Glaze and Check Temperature:
After 45 minutes, take the meatloaf out of the oven, brush it with the remaining glaze, then put it back in for another 15-20 minutes. You want it to reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for it to be perfectly cooked.
9. Rest and Slice:
Once baked, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This makes it easier to cut and helps keep those juices inside!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with extra chopped parsley and a few sprigs of fresh rosemary if you’d like. Serve it warm with sides like creamy mashed potatoes and roasted broccoli for a complete meal.
Enjoy your tender meatloaf with its glossy, flavorful balsamic glaze! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat for This Meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can use a blend of ground beef and pork for extra flavor, or go with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just make sure it’s a similar fat content (around 80/20) for the best texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the meat mixture and shape the loaf a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it. You can also freeze the unbaked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, or microwave slices for a quick option.
What Can I Serve with Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. Feel free to get creative with your favorite sides!