Classic Meatloaf with Ketchup and Worcestershire Glaze Recipe

If you have been searching for a hearty, comforting meal that brings classic flavors with a deliciously tangy twist, look no further than the Classic Meatloaf with Ketchup and Worcestershire Glaze Recipe. This dish blends juicy ground beef with a perfectly balanced glaze that adds the sweetest and tangiest notes, turning an everyday meatloaf into a family favorite. The combination of simple ingredients creates a satisfying texture and rich taste that fills your home with irresistible aromas and makes any meal feel like a special occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Classic Meatloaf with Ketchup and Worcestershire Glaze Recipe. Each element plays an important role—whether it’s building moisture, adding zest, or creating that perfect crust.

• 2 pounds ground beef: The hearty base that brings rich flavor and protein to the dish.
• 1 small onion, finely diced (about 1 cup): Adds subtle sweetness and moisture, essential for a tender meatloaf.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced: Gives a fragrant punch that complements the beef perfectly.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together, keeping the loaf firm but moist.
• 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds tang and depth inside the meat mixture.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: A secret ingredient providing savory umami richness.
• ⅔ cup quick-cooking oats: Acts as a natural filler and keeps the texture satisfying.
• ⅓ cup milk: Moistens the oats and meat for tenderness.
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the flavor with fresh herbaceous notes.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Offers a classic blend of herbs for depth.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential flavor enhancer that brings out the best in all ingredients.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds mild spice and warmth to the profile.
• Meatloaf Glaze Ingredients:
• ½ cup ketchup: Forms the sweet and tangy base of the glossy glaze.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts the glaze’s savory complexity.
• 1 tablespoon coconut sugar or brown sugar: Gives a caramelized, rich sweetness to finish the top beautifully.

How to Make Classic Meatloaf with Ketchup and Worcestershire Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by finely dicing the onion and mincing the garlic so their flavors can meld smoothly into the meat. Having everything ready before mixing makes the process so much easier and lets you focus on creating that perfect texture.

Step 2: Combine the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, gently mix together the ground beef, diced onion, garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oats, milk, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Remember to combine everything just until evenly mixed—overworking can make the meatloaf tough instead of tender.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or rimmed sheet pan and shape it into a loaf about 8 inches long. The shape helps it cook evenly, and the size is perfect for slicing into generous portions that hold together beautifully.

Step 4: Prepare the Ketchup and Worcestershire Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and coconut or brown sugar until smooth. This glaze will caramelize as it bakes, giving the meatloaf a shiny, flavorful crust that everyone loves.

Step 5: Apply the Glaze and Bake

Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the shaped meatloaf. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes. Then, brush the remaining glaze over the top and bake another 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Letting it rest a few minutes after baking sets the juices and makes slicing easier.

How to Serve Classic Meatloaf with Ketchup and Worcestershire Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a bright pop of color and a subtle fresh flavor that complements the rich meatloaf beautifully. For an extra touch, a few thinly sliced green onions can add both texture and a mild sharpness.

Side Dishes

This Classic Meatloaf with Ketchup and Worcestershire Glaze Recipe shines alongside creamy mashed potatoes, buttery green beans, or roasted seasonal veggies. The simplicity of the sides lets the meatloaf’s flavors take center stage while providing comforting balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform leftovers into sliders by slicing the meatloaf thinly and serving on small buns with pickles and a dollop of extra glaze. You can also cut it into cubes for hearty meatloaf skewers, perfect for a fun twist on a nostalgic favorite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Proper storage helps maintain moisture and flavor so you can enjoy delicious seconds.

Freezing

This Classic Meatloaf with Ketchup and Worcestershire Glaze Recipe freezes wonderfully. Cool completely, then wrap it securely in foil or plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months, letting you enjoy home-cooked comfort any time.

Reheating

For best results, thaw frozen meatloaf overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through. If refrigerated, simply cover and heat gently to preserve the glaze and avoid drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner version, but keep in mind they may require a bit more moisture, so consider adding a splash more milk or an extra egg to keep the meatloaf tender.

What can I substitute for quick-cooking oats?

If you don’t have oats, plain breadcrumbs work just as well to bind the meat and soak up juices. Just keep the amount similar to maintain the right texture.

Is the glaze necessary?

The glaze is definitely the showstopper of this Classic Meatloaf with Ketchup and Worcestershire Glaze Recipe. It adds sweetness and tang that transform the dish, but if you prefer, you can bake the meatloaf without it—just expect a milder flavor.

Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time?

You sure can. Prepare the mixture, shape the loaf, and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the glaze fresh before popping it in the oven for the best finish.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the loaf. This ensures it’s safe and juicy—not dry or undercooked.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the nostalgic comfort of a perfectly baked meatloaf, and this Classic Meatloaf with Ketchup and Worcestershire Glaze Recipe delivers that and so much more. Its balance of savory beef, aromatic herbs, and that irresistible glaze makes it a winner every time you make it. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and get cooking—your next favorite meal is waiting!

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