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Meatloaf Recipe
5 from 228 votes

Meatloaf Recipe

This Meatloaf Recipe combines lean ground beef with a blend of dried herbs, spices, cheddar cheese, and a rich glaze for a balanced savory dish. The beef mixture includes parsley, Italian seasoning, paprika, and a hint of red pepper flakes, enhancing the flavor without overpowering it. The glaze, made with ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, sweet chili sauce, and mustard, adds a sweet and tangy caramelized finish after baking. Proper gentle mixing and shaping ensure a tender, juicy meatloaf with crispy edges.

Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
1 hr
Total Time
1 hr 15 mins
Servings: 8 slices
Calories: 342 kcal
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Meatloaf:
  • 2 lbs ground beef 90% lean
  • 1 teaspoon parsley dried
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika ground
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper ground
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 onion finely diced, small
  • 1 tablespoon garlic minced
  • 1 cup bread crumbs plain
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 egg beaten
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
Meatloaf Glaze:
  • 1/3 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon mustard

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  2. Cover a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil. Lightly spray with oil. Set aside.
Make Meatloaf:
  1. Add the ground beef to a large bowl. Then, mix in dried parsley, Italian herbs, paprika, red pepper flakes, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and onion. Next, add the breadcrumbs, season with salt and pepper, and mix until everything is well combined.
  2. After that, add the milk and beaten egg. Stir just until combined.
  3. Add the cheddar cheese and again mix well, but do not over-beat.
  4. Shape the beef mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
Glaze:
  1. Add all the glaze ingredients in a small bowl and stir until well combined, set aside. Brush about half of the glaze all over the meatloaf.
Bake:
  1. Transfer meatloaf to the oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature is 160F degrees. Brush the remaining glaze all over the surface and bake for another 15 minutes.
  2. Once it is done, let it cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Mix the meat ingredients gently until just combined to keep the meatloaf tender.
  • Use lean ground beef to maintain moisture without excess grease.
  • Finely dice onions to blend smoothly into the mixture and avoid large chunks.
  • Shape the meatloaf by hand on a baking sheet for crispy, homemade-style edges rather than soggy crust from loaf pans.
  • Apply the glaze twice during baking to lock in moisture and achieve a caramelized finish.
  • Check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F before removing from the oven to ensure proper cooking.
  • Let the meatloaf rest for 10–15 minutes after baking so it holds together and flavors settle.
  • Consider using panko breadcrumbs to make the meatloaf softer and juicier.

Nutrition Information

Calories 342kcal (17%) Carbohydrates 20g (7%) Protein 25g (50%) Fat 24g (37%) Saturated Fat 10g (50%) Cholesterol 101mg (34%) Sodium 435mg (18%) Potassium 402mg (9%) Fiber 1g (4%) Sugar 10g (20%) Vitamin A 300IU (6%) Vitamin C 2.1mg (2%) Calcium 159mg (16%) Iron 3.5mg (19%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 8 slices

Amount Per Serving

Calories 342

% Daily Value*

Calories 342kcal 17%
Carbohydrates 20g 7%
Protein 25g 50%
Fat 24g 37%
Saturated Fat 10g 50%
Cholesterol 101mg 34%
Sodium 435mg 18%
Potassium 402mg 9%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 10g 20%
Vitamin A 300IU 6%
Vitamin C 2.1mg 2%
Calcium 159mg 16%
Iron 3.5mg 19%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.