This tasty meatloaf is dressed up with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, making it anything but ordinary! It’s juicy and packed with flavor, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Trust me, the glaze is what you want to smother on everything! I love serving it with mashed potatoes; it’s a classic combo that always makes me smile. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I suggest using 85% lean ground beef for a juicy meatloaf. If you’re looking for a healthier option, 90% lean works too, but be mindful it may be a bit drier. You could also use turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Ground Pork: This is optional, but it really adds flavor and moisture. If you don’t have it, you can simply use more ground beef or even mashed beans for a vegetarian alternative.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs are best for texture, but you can use crushed crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. If you’re out, rolled oats can be a great substitute too!
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a nice flavor, but if you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast or omit it entirely. Grated mozzarella or cheddar also works well if you want a different cheese flavor.
Balsamic Glaze: If you’re out of balsamic vinegar, a mix of red wine vinegar and a bit of honey can mimic the flavor. You can also use BBQ sauce for a different twist!
How Can I Keep My Meatloaf from Being Dry?
Moisture is crucial in a meatloaf to make it tender and flavorful. Here are a few tips to keep yours juicy:
- Soak the breadcrumbs in milk first. This adds moisture that gets soaked up during baking.
- Avoid overmixing when combining ingredients. This keeps the meatloaf light and fluffy.
- If you can, let it rest after baking. This helps retain more juices, making those first slices extra tender.
Using a meat thermometer is also helpful! It should read 160°F (70°C) when done. If you’re unsure, keep an eye on the time and check early.
Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (85% lean)
- 1/2 pound ground pork (optional, for added flavor and moisture)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
For the Balsamic Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 1 hour in the oven. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in just over an hour. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking the meatloaf evenly. You can also prepare your loaf pan by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the milk. Let it sit for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs soak up the milk. This will add moisture to your meatloaf, helping it stay tender and juicy.
3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if you are using it), soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this will help your meatloaf stay nice and tender.
4. Shape and Place the Meatloaf:
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared loaf pan. Neaten the sides and top to ensure it cooks evenly.
5. Make the Balsamic Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard (if using) until smooth. This sweet and tangy glaze will be the perfect topping for the meatloaf!
6. Add the Glaze:
Spread about half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will add fantastic flavor while it bakes.
7. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake it for 45 minutes. Then, carefully remove it from the oven to add the remaining glaze on top.
8. Finishing Touches:
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). This ensures it’s cooked through and safe to eat.
9. Let It Rest:
Once done, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time lets the juices redistribute, making it slice nicely.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Slice the meatloaf and serve it with delicious sides like mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli. Enjoy your homemade Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter option. Just be aware that turkey can be a bit drier than beef, so consider adding a little extra moisture, like a splash more milk or some additional moisture-rich veggies.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Make This Meatloaf Gluten-Free?
Yes! Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or even oats. Just make sure to choose gluten-free ketchup and check your other ingredients for hidden gluten.
What Should I Serve With Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad. The glaze is perfect for dipping or drizzling over any sides you choose!