Mom’s Classic Meatloaf with Sweet & Tangy Glaze

A tender, old-fashioned family recipe that tastes just like Sunday supper. 

Meatloaf was one of those dependable meals my mom could make without even glancing at a recipe card. She mixed it by feel, shaped it by memory, and somehow it always came out just right. It was simple, filling, and stretched a pound of beef into a hearty family supper.

This version is moist and tender, gently seasoned with pantry spices and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. It’s the kind of meal that makes the house smell warm and welcoming — especially on cool evenings when everyone gathers around the table.

Serve it with mashed potatoes and green beans, and you’ve got a meal that feels like home.

Ingredients:

1 lb. ground beef
1 onion, chopped fine
1 c. breadcrumbs cracker crumbs or crushed stuffing mix 
1 egg
1/2 c. milk
2 tbsp. ketchup
1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
2 tsp. hot sauce (optional)
1 tsp. dried parsley leaves
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. onion powder
1/4 tsp. pepper
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper

Topping:

1/4 c. ketchup
2 to 3 Tbs. brown sugar
1 Tbs. prepared mustard

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), parsley, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and cayenne.

Using clean hands, gently mix everything together just until combined. Try not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense and tough.

Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and gently shape it, smoothing the top evenly.

In a small bowl, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Remove from the oven and allow the meatloaf to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps each slice moist.

Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes & Helpful Tips:

Do not overmix. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.

Add sausage for extra flavor. Substitute up to half the ground beef with mild or spicy sausage.

For extra moisture: Sauté the chopped onion in a little butter before adding it to the mixture.

Make ahead: Assemble earlier in the day, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Leftovers are wonderful in sandwiches the next day.

🍽 Serving Suggestions:

This meatloaf pairs beautifully with classic comfort sides:

Traditional Sunday Supper Plate:

Creamy mashed potatoes (don’t forget extra gravy!)

Buttery green beans or garden peas

Warm dinner rolls or biscuits

Hearty Farmhouse Meal:

Scalloped or roasted potatoes

Honey-glazed carrots

Coleslaw for a fresh contrast

Budget-Friendly Weeknight Supper:

Baked potatoes

Corn on the cob or canned corn

Simple side salad

Leftover Ideas:

Thick meatloaf sandwiches on white bread

Crumbled into spaghetti sauce

Sliced and reheated with eggs for breakfast