Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf

There’s something magical about the aroma of a meatloaf baking in the oven. It fills your home with warmth and nostalgia, wrapping you in a comforting embrace. The Best Ever Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf Recipe takes this classic dish and elevates it with a sweet-tangy glaze that makes every bite a celebration of flavors.

Picture this: You’re gathered around the dinner table, laughter echoing as you slice into this juicy masterpiece. The glaze glistens under the light, promising an explosion of taste that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me; you’ll want to keep this recipe close to your heart.

I remember the first time I made this for my family; their eyes lit up like Christmas morning when they took their first bite!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: I usually go for a mix of 80/20 beef for optimal juiciness without being too greasy.
• Bread Crumbs: Use plain or Italian-seasoned crumbs; they help bind everything together while adding texture.
• Eggs: Two eggs provide structure and moisture; choose large eggs for consistency.
• Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth—yellow onions work best here.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a fragrant kick; don’t skimp on it!
• Balsamic Vinegar: Use high-quality balsamic vinegar for the glaze; it should be sweet and tangy.
• Ketchup: Adds sweetness and balances the flavors in both the meat and glaze.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A splash enhances the umami flavor—trust me on this one!
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every bite; adjust according to taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab your trusty mixing bowl and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece!

Mixing the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the balsamic vinegar. Mix until just combined—don’t overdo it or you’ll end up with tough meatloaf!

Molding Your Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps with cleanup later on!

The Glaze: In another small bowl, mix ketchup with remaining balsamic vinegar until well blended. Spread half of this mixture over your molded meatloaf for an irresistible crust.

Baking Time: Place your loaf in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when an internal thermometer reads 160°F (70°C). Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Add Final Touches: Remove from oven and brush on the remaining glaze. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before slicing; this allows the juices to redistribute for maximum flavor.

Enjoy serving slices of your succulent creation alongside mashed potatoes or steamed veggies—the choices are endless!

Now you’re equipped with everything you need to impress family and friends alike! Get ready for compliments and requests for the recipe because this Best Ever Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf will steal the show at any meal.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F while you mix the meatloaf ingredients. Form the loaf and let it rest briefly before baking. This ensures even cooking and enhances the flavors.

Add Your Touch

Try adding shredded carrots or finely chopped bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. A sprinkle of smoked paprika can also elevate your glaze to new heights.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, bake at 250°F until warmed through, preserving that delicious glaze.

Cooking this meatloaf always brings back memories of family gatherings, where everyone eagerly awaited their slice and praised my culinary skills (which were mostly just avoiding burning it!).

FAQ

What makes this the Best Ever Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf Recipe?

The balsamic glaze adds a sweet tangy kick that elevates traditional meatloaf flavors.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, but add breadcrumbs or oats to retain moisture in your meatloaf.

How can I freeze leftover meatloaf?

Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

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Best Ever Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf Recipe

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in this succulent meatloaf drizzled with a sweet-tangy balsamic glaze, perfect for family dinners and guaranteed to impress!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
• 1 cup bread crumbs (plain or Italian)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt & pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the balsamic vinegar. Mix gently until combined.
3. Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. In another bowl, mix ketchup with the remaining balsamic vinegar. Spread half of this glaze over the meatloaf.
5. Bake for about 60 minutes or until an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) is reached.
6. Brush the remaining glaze over the meatloaf and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 80mg