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BBQ Glazed Meatloaf

Classic family recipe BBQ glazed meatloaf slice with mashed potatoes and green beans

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A family favorite comfort food with a secret for bakery-style texture. This meatloaf features a double layer of sweet and smoky BBQ glaze for a perfectly caramelized crust. It’s tender, juicy, and holds together beautifully for slicing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Meatloaf:
  • 2 lbs ground beef (85/15)
  • 1 cup finely crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely grated
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • For the BBQ Glaze:
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Make the glaze by whisking BBQ sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar in a small bowl. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients. Gently mix with hands until just combined; do not overmix.
  4. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Shape into a 9×5-inch loaf, about 2 inches high.
  5. Spread half of the BBQ glaze evenly over the top and sides of the loaf.
  6. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove from oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
  7. Return to oven and bake for 15-20 more minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
  8. Let the meatloaf rest on the baking sheet for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat. Letting the meatloaf rest is crucial for juiciness. Baking on a sheet pan instead of a loaf pan creates a better crust. An instant-read thermometer is the best way to check for doneness.

Nutrition