Easy Meatloaf Recipe with the BEST Glaze

If you’re searching for a tried-and-true comfort food dinner, look no further than this Quick and Easy Meatloaf Recipe. It’s a family favorite made with everyday pantry staples and topped with a sweet and tangy homemade barbecue sauce. With only 10 minutes of prep time, this hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend dinner. Moist, flavorful, and easy to make, it’s no wonder this meatloaf has become a go-to recipe for home cooks everywhere.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup oatmeal
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Homemade Barbecue Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons mustard
• 1/3 cup ketchup

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, chopped onion, milk, oatmeal, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix the ingredients thoroughly using a large spoon or your hands until well combined.
4. Press the meat mixture firmly into a loaf pan to form the shape.
5. Line a baking pan with parchment paper and flip the formed loaf from the loaf pan onto the lined baking pan.
6. In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar, mustard, and ketchup to make the barbecue sauce.
7. Pour the sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
8. Bake for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the meatloaf is no longer pink in the center and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve the meatloaf hot, freshly sliced, alongside classic comfort food sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted carrots, buttered corn, or a fresh garden salad. For extra flavor, drizzle a bit of the leftover barbecue sauce on top just before serving.

Leftovers can be used creatively—slice and place on sandwich bread for a hearty meatloaf sandwich, crumble it into pasta sauce, or repurpose it into meatloaf sliders for an easy lunch.

To store, let the meatloaf cool completely, then place slices in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes per slice or warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through. For best texture, cover with foil when reheating in the oven to keep it moist.

Variations

1. Turkey Meatloaf
   Swap the ground beef with lean ground turkey for a lighter, healthier version. Since turkey is leaner, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or a bit more milk to keep it moist. You can also mix in some grated zucchini or carrots for added moisture and nutrition.
2. Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf
   Add a layer of shredded sharp cheddar cheese in the middle of the meat mixture before shaping the loaf. When baked, the cheese melts and creates a gooey, flavorful center. This variation is especially kid-friendly and adds richness to each bite.
3. Spicy Meatloaf
   Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder or hot sauce to the meat mixture, and stir some crushed red pepper flakes into the barbecue sauce. You can also add chopped jalapeños or pepper jack cheese for an extra kick. This version is perfect for spice lovers.
4. Italian-Style Meatloaf
   Replace the oatmeal with Italian breadcrumbs, mix in 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning, and substitute the ketchup in the sauce with marinara. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking for an irresistible Italian flair.
5. BBQ Bacon Meatloaf
   Add 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon into the meat mixture and wrap additional strips around the loaf before baking. The bacon enhances the smoky flavor and pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy barbecue glaze.
6. Vegetable-Loaded Meatloaf
   Add finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, shredded carrots, or spinach to the meat mixture. This boosts nutrition and adds texture. Sauté vegetables first to release moisture and enhance their flavor before mixing in.
7. Gluten-Free Meatloaf
   Replace the oatmeal with certified gluten-free oats or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure all sauce ingredients like mustard and ketchup are labeled gluten-free. This version is safe for those with gluten sensitivities while keeping the original flavor intact.
8. Mini Meatloaf Muffins
   Divide the meat mixture into a muffin tin instead of baking as a loaf. Bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes. These mini meatloaves cook faster, are perfectly portioned, and make great lunchbox additions or party appetizers.
9. BBQ Ranch Meatloaf
   Stir 2 tablespoons of ranch seasoning mix into the meat mixture and use a barbecue-ranch sauce blend for the topping. This adds a savory herb flavor and a creamy tang that pairs beautifully with the beef.
10. Southwest Meatloaf
    Add 1/2 cup of black beans, 1/2 cup of corn, a dash of cumin, and a handful of chopped cilantro to the meat mixture. Top with salsa instead of barbecue sauce and sprinkle with Monterey Jack cheese. It’s a Tex-Mex twist that’s bold and flavorful.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground beef with higher or lower fat content?
   Yes, you can use lean or regular ground beef, but keep in mind that higher fat content will make the meatloaf juicier, while leaner beef may result in a drier texture. Adding extra milk or vegetables can help maintain moisture with leaner meat.
2. Is it necessary to flip the meatloaf out of the loaf pan?
   Flipping the meatloaf onto a parchment-lined baking sheet helps grease drain away and prevents the loaf from sitting in fat, resulting in a better texture. However, baking it in the loaf pan is fine if you prefer.
3. How do I prevent the meatloaf from cracking?
   Avoid overmixing the meat mixture and don’t press it too tightly. Also, letting the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes after baking helps it firm up and slice cleanly without cracking.
4. Can I make meatloaf without oatmeal?
   Yes, you can substitute oatmeal with breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or cooked rice to help bind the meat mixture.
5. How long does leftover meatloaf last?
   Refrigerated leftovers are best eaten within 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze slices for up to 3 months.
6. Can I prepare this meatloaf in advance?
   Absolutely. You can assemble the meatloaf a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.
7. What is the best way to reheat meatloaf?
   Reheat slices gently in the microwave or in an oven set to 325°F, covered with foil to retain moisture.
8. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
   Yes, finely chopped or grated vegetables like onions, bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini can be mixed in to boost nutrition and flavor.
9. Is it safe to eat meatloaf if the center is still pink?
   No, always ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F to guarantee it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
10. Can I use a different sauce instead of barbecue sauce?
    Certainly! You can try ketchup, tomato sauce, marinara, or even a mushroom gravy depending on your taste preferences.

This Quick and Easy Meatloaf Recipe is a timeless comfort food dish that brings warmth to any dinner table. It’s simple to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and Sunday meals. With its moist texture and tasty barbecue glaze, this meatloaf is bound to become a regular favorite in your household.

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