Meatloaf Recipe

This garlic herb meatloaf with a tangy glaze is juicy, flavorful, and easy to make. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s a comforting classic with a gourmet twist that’s sure to impress. Ready in under an hour and loaded with irresistible flavors!

Savory Glazed Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Infusion

There’s something universally comforting about a well-made meatloaf. It’s the kind of dish that takes you back to childhood dinners, gathered around the table, with the scent of roasted meat and herbs filling the air. This savory glazed meatloaf is a step above the rest—juicy, bursting with garlic herb flavors, and crowned with a perfectly tangy glaze. The result? A slice of pure comfort that’s moist, rich, and flavorful in every bite.

If you’ve struggled with dry, flavorless meatloaf in the past, worry no more. With a few simple tips and a perfect balance of ingredients, this recipe is foolproof. Plus, the glaze? It’s a masterpiece on its own—sweet, tangy, and with just the right kick to make every bite irresistible.

What Makes This Meatloaf Recipe So Special?

Meatloaf is a dish with roots in many cultures, but its popularity in American homes is undeniable. At its core, it’s a simple loaf of seasoned ground meat baked to perfection, but the possibilities for flavor combinations are endless.

This variation stands out for its unique garlic and herb infusion, which elevates the flavor to restaurant quality. The balance of ground beef and pork ensures tenderness, while the homemade glaze ties it all together with a sweet and savory finish.

Not to mention, this meatloaf is versatile. Serve it at a casual family dinner, a holiday table, or even repurpose leftovers for meatloaf sandwiches the next day!

If you’re in the mood for more hearty comfort foods, you might enjoy this lamb ragu recipe or a classic Pappadeaux crawfish étouffée.

Ingredients: Choosing the Best for Ultimate Flavor

Each ingredient in this meatloaf serves a purpose. Let’s break them down to see why they work and how they come together.

Ground Meat

• Ground Beef (80/20): The ideal fat-to-lean ratio ensures your meatloaf stays moist.
• Ground Pork: Adds a layer of sweetness and a soft texture that balances the beef.

Binder

• Panko Breadcrumbs: Light and airy, these prevent the loaf from becoming dense.
• Whole Milk: Softens the breadcrumbs and keeps the texture tender.

Aromatics

• Onion and Garlic: The backbone of flavor. Sautéing them first helps mellow their bite and enhances sweetness.

Herbs and Spices

• Fresh Thyme and Parsley: Add a pop of fresh, earthy flavor.
• Smoked Paprika: Brings subtle smokiness to complement the glaze.

The Glaze

• Ketchup: A classic base for the glaze.
• Brown Sugar: Balances the acidity with sweetness.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy contrast that keeps the glaze from being overly sweet.
• Optional Chili Paste: For those who like a little heat in their meatloaf.

For a delicious side to complement this recipe, try these air fryer crunchy potatoes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-Packed: The combination of herbs, garlic, and smoked paprika makes each bite memorable.
• Moist and Juicy: Thanks to the perfect fat ratio and the breadcrumb-milk mixture.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a Sunday dinner or a holiday spread, this meatloaf fits right in.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider pairing this dish with Tippins cornbread for a complete Southern-style meal.

How to Make the Best Glazed Meatloaf

Step 1: Prepping Your Ingredients

Start by finely chopping your onions and garlic. A fine dice ensures they blend seamlessly into the meat. For fresh herbs like parsley and thyme, chop them just before mixing to maintain their vibrant flavor.

Step 2: Combining the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, pork, soaked breadcrumbs, eggs, onions, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, thyme, parsley, and seasonings. Be gentle—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.

Step 3: Shaping the Loaf

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Transfer the meat mixture onto the sheet and gently shape it into a loaf. Keep it compact but avoid pressing it too firmly—you want the loaf to hold its shape without being overly dense.

Tip: If you have a loaf pan, you can shape the meatloaf in the pan and then invert it onto the baking sheet to bake. This helps ensure a uniform shape.

Step 4: Preparing the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and optional chili paste. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your liking—this glaze is all about balance.

Once mixed, brush a generous layer of the glaze over the top and sides of the meatloaf. This will caramelize beautifully during baking and add a sticky, flavorful crust.

Step 5: Baking the Meatloaf

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the meatloaf in the center of the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Midway through baking, brush on another layer of glaze to enhance the flavor and achieve that signature glossy finish.

Step 6: Resting and Serving

Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful loaf.

Slice into thick pieces and serve with classic sides like mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or even baby shower meatballs (recipe here) for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal.

Tips for Perfect Meatloaf Every Time

• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: This step is crucial for juicy results.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs, onions, and garlic elevate the flavor of your meatloaf.
• Double the Glaze: If you love extra sauce, make a double batch of glaze for serving on the side.

If you’re craving a bold side dish to elevate this meal, consider Spiedie sandwiches or a tangy street corn popcorn seasoning.

Why This Meatloaf Is Perfect for Gatherings

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, this dish shines. The garlic-herb infusion and tangy glaze make it sophisticated enough for guests, yet it’s comforting and familiar for a family meal.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Slice it thin for sandwiches, serve it alongside crockpot ham, green beans, and potatoes, or even pair it with tajin sorbet for a unique twist.

Flavor and Texture: What to Expect

The first bite of this meatloaf delivers a savory depth from the beef and pork, followed by the subtle sweetness of the glaze. The texture is tender, with just the right amount of bite. The garlic and fresh herbs shine through without overpowering the dish.

Each slice is a balance of flavors and textures—a satisfying crust from the glaze, moist interior, and occasional bursts of herbaceous freshness.

Leftovers: The Gift That Keeps Giving

This meatloaf tastes even better the next day. Use it to make hearty sandwiches, crumble it into a spaghetti sauce, or pair it with a Nunu drink for a quirky breakfast twist.

To store, wrap tightly in foil or an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze slices individually for easy meals later—just thaw and reheat!

Pairing Suggestions

This meatloaf pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:

1. Cheesesteak Tortellini (recipe here) for a hearty, creamy side.
2. Blue Jam Garlic Aioli (recipe here) as a dipping sauce for a savory twist.
3. Zamorano Buns (recipe here) to turn it into a meatloaf sandwich.

Savory Glazed Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Infusion

A moist and flavorful meatloaf recipe infused with garlic, herbs, and a tangy glaze that sets it apart. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 fat ratio)
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/3 cup ketchup (for the glaze)
• 2 tbsp brown sugar (for the glaze)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (for the glaze)
• 1 tsp chili paste (optional, for glaze)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine the panko breadcrumbs and milk in a bowl, letting them sit for 5 minutes to absorb.
3. In a large mixing bowl, gently mix the beef, pork, soaked breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until just combined.
4. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and chili paste for the glaze.
6. Brush half of the glaze over the meatloaf and bake for 45 minutes.
7. Remove the meatloaf, spread the remaining glaze over the top, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
8. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

15 minutes prep time with 60 minutes cook time.

Serves 6 and contains approximately 350 calories per serving.

American, Comfort Food / Main Course

Rated 4.9 by 158 reviewers.

Recipe Tags: meatloaf recipe, savory meatloaf, garlic herb meatloaf, glazed meatloaf, family dinner recipes, comfort food

Published by: Show Recipe