This Honey Mustard Meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish! It combines sweet honey and tangy mustard for a delicious flavor that brings everyone to the table.
No one can resist a slice topped with extra sauce—it’s just that good! I love serving it with mashed potatoes, making dinner a cozy and comforting treat any night of the week.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The recipe calls for 1 1/2 pounds of ground beef for a hearty texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can mix beef with ground turkey or pork.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf together. In a pinch, crushed crackers or oats can work as substitutes!
Honey: Honey adds a touch of sweetness. For those who want less sugar, maple syrup or agave nectar are good alternatives.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a tangy punch. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard is fine, though it may taste milder.
Onion & Garlic: These are key for flavor. You can use onion powder if you’re out of fresh onion, and garlic powder for the garlic. Just adjust to taste!
How Do I Ensure My Meatloaf is Moist and Flavorful?
A big concern with meatloaf is it can turn out dry. To keep yours moist, use a combination of milk-soaked breadcrumbs to add moisture and fat from ground meat. Mixing gently, rather than overworking the meat, is key to retaining juiciness.
- Soak breadcrumbs in milk for at least 5 minutes, until they’re fully absorbed.
- Don’t squish the meat too much—just mix until everything is combined.
- Using a loaf pan can help the meatloaf keep its shape while cooking, so it cooks evenly.
How to Make Honey Mustard Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (can substitute with a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard if preferred)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional for garnish and flavor)
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prep the ingredients and get everything mixed together. Then, the meatloaf bakes for about 1 hour total, allowing for a delicious, juicy finish. Plan for about 10 minutes of resting time after baking before slicing. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour 25 minutes from start to finish—easy and totally worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Pan:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup, or just lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil.
2. Soaking the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This is the secret to a moist meatloaf!
3. Mixing the Meatloaf:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, honey, mustard, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together until just combined—don’t overmix! This helps keep your meatloaf juicy.
4. Shaping the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared loaf pan. Shape it gently into a loaf, ensuring a nice, even top.
5. Preparing the Glaze:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the glaze ingredients: honey, mustard, and vinegar. This will add a beautiful, flavorful topping to your meatloaf once baked.
6. Adding the Glaze:
Spread about half of the glaze evenly over the top of your meatloaf before baking. Save the other half for later!
7. Baking:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes. After that time, add the rest of the glaze on top and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes. Your meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
8. Garnishing:
If you like, you can add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme on top for a beautiful garnish just before serving!
9. Slicing and Serving:
Once out of the oven, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This makes slicing easier and helps hold the juices in. Serve warm with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or steamed veggies. Enjoy the flavors of your delicious Honey Mustard Meatloaf!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great lean option that works well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey can be drier, so be careful not to overcook it. Adding a little extra moisture, like a splash more of milk or an extra egg, can help maintain juiciness.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also wrap slices in plastic wrap or foil. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices, which can last for about 2-3 months.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf ahead of time. Just cover it and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. When you’re ready to cook, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What Can I Serve with Honey Mustard Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it on a sandwich or with a side of macaroni and cheese for a comforting meal!