Meatloaf is a true comfort food for many families, and I think it’s one of the best dinners you can make. It’s warm, filling, and perfect for a cozy meal at home.
Today, I’m sharing two fantastic meatloaf recipes that bring something a little different to your dinner table. You’ll find a classic sweet and tangy version and another with a nice smoky kick.
Jump to Recipe:
Classic Brown Sugar Ketchup Glazed Meatloaf Recipe
This meatloaf is a timeless family favorite, featuring a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze that bakes right into the top. It’s simple, comforting, and always a hit at dinner.
Key Meatloaf Ingredients & Tips
- Ground Beef Choice: I suggest using 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and moisture in your meatloaf.
- Sweet Ketchup Glaze: Don’t skip the brown sugar in the glaze; it caramelizes beautifully, giving a great crust.
- Mixing Technique: Mix the meatloaf ingredients just until combined to keep it tender, not tough. Overmixing makes it dense.
What You Need for Glazed Meatloaf
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
⏱️ Time: 15 mins prep, 1 hour bake🍽️ Yields: 6-8 servings
How to Make This Meatloaf
Step 1: Get Ready to Mix
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything, but try not to overwork the meat.
Step 2: Form and Bake
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish or on a foil-lined baking sheet. Bake for 45 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Glaze
While the meatloaf bakes, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl for the glaze. After 45 minutes, take the meatloaf out and spread the glaze evenly over the top. Put it back in the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and the glaze is bubbly.
📝 Final Note
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking before slicing. This helps it hold its shape and keeps it juicy.
Smoky Chipotle Meatloaf Recipe
If you like a little heat and smoky flavor, this chipotle meatloaf is perfect for you. It brings a welcome kick to a classic dish, making dinner exciting and full of taste.
Key Chipotle Meatloaf Ingredients & Tips
- Chipotle Peppers in Adobo: This ingredient is key for the smoky heat. Use more or less depending on how spicy you like things.
- Adobo Sauce: Don’t forget to use some of the adobo sauce from the can along with the peppers; it adds a lot of depth.
- Fine Mincing: Finely mince your onion and garlic so they blend well into the meatloaf without big chunks.
What You Need for Spicy Meatloaf
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo, minced (plus 1 tbsp adobo sauce)
- 1/4 cup milk or beef broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- 1 tsp adobo sauce from can (optional, for extra heat)
⏱️ Time: 15 mins prep, 1 hour 5 mins bake🍽️ Yields: 6-8 servings
How to Make This Chipotle Meatloaf
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, panko breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, minced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, milk (or broth), cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Step 2: Bake the Loaf
Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish. Bake for 50 minutes.
Step 3: Apply the Glaze
While the meatloaf bakes, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar (or honey), and optional adobo sauce for the glaze. After 50 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the glaze over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
📝 Final Note
Serve this chipotle meatloaf with mashed potatoes to balance the spice, or even with a side of corn for a complete meal. You can always adjust the amount of chipotle for your preferred spice level.