Glazed Meat Loaf
A hearty glazed meat loaf combining ground beef with cheese, vegetables, and bread, topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and bread in a bowl.
- Beat until the bread is broken up and mixture is combined.
- Add chopped onion, shredded carrot, shredded Cheddar cheese, and ground beef to the mixture.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form the mixture into a large loaf in the center of a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Combine brown sugar, ketchup, and prepared mustard to make the glaze.
- Spread the glaze over the meatloaf after initial baking.
- Continue baking for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding minced garlic or herbs like thyme or oregano to the meat mixture. If you don't have ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can be good substitutes, though the texture may vary slightly. For a lower-carb option, use cauliflower rice instead of bread. Ensure the meatloaf is cooked through by checking the internal temperature, which should reach 160°F (70°C).
Serving Suggestions
Serve the glazed meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad for a lighter option. For a fun twist, try making meatloaf sandwiches with the leftovers, adding some crisp lettuce and tomato. Browse more American recipes for additional side ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a baking dish, covering it with foil to retain moisture. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Glazed Meat Loaf contains roughly 873 calories, with 34g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (70% of the Daily Value), protein (68% of the Daily Value), and iron (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1608mg per serving (70% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the meatloaf before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked meatloaf. Shape it into a loaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking as directed.
How can I make the glaze spicier?
To add some heat to the glaze, mix in a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the brown sugar, ketchup, and mustard. This will give the meatloaf a nice kick without overpowering the other flavors.
What should I do if my meatloaf falls apart?
If your meatloaf is crumbly, it may need more binding agents. Consider adding an extra egg or a bit more bread soaked in milk to the mixture. Make sure to mix well, but don't overwork the meat, as this can also lead to a dry texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).