Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf

It’s the aroma of a home-cooked meal that wraps around you like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Picture this: a golden-brown loaf of Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf nestled in the center of your dining table, its rich aroma wafting through the air as you anticipate each savory bite. Now that’s an invitation hard to resist!

Growing up, my mom would whip up this dish whenever we had a family gathering. Each slice drizzled with that tangy-sweet balsamic glaze brought everyone to the table with smiles and laughter. It was our version of comfort food and never failed to impress guests who left asking for seconds—and sometimes thirds!

I still remember the delighted faces of friends when I first served this dish at a potluck dinner. Everyone raved about how juicy and flavorful it was!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ground Beef: Choose 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for juicy meat without being too greasy.
• Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs to help bind the meat mixture together.
• Egg: One large egg adds moisture and helps hold everything together beautifully.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Opt for high-quality balsamic vinegar for rich flavor; it makes all the difference!
• Ketchup: Adds sweetness and moisture; feel free to use low-sugar options if desired.
• Onion: Finely chop one medium onion; it adds sweetness when caramelized during baking.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic enhances flavor; avoid pre-minced versions for best results.
• Dried Oregano and Thyme: These herbs add depth; feel free to substitute with fresh herbs if available.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings—don’t forget to adjust based on your taste preferences!
• Parsley (for garnish): Fresh parsley adds color; sprinkle it over before serving for visual appeal.

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

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven : Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan lightly with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Sauté the Aromatics : In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until softened and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do nicely.

Create the Meat Mixture : In a large bowl, combine ground beef, sautéed onions, breadcrumbs, egg, dried oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, ketchup, and half of the balsamic vinegar. Mix gently but thoroughly until just combined.

Shape into Loaf : Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf form using your hands—aim for an even thickness throughout.

Add the Glaze : In a small bowl, mix remaining balsamic vinegar with additional ketchup. Pour over your shaped meatloaf evenly to create that glossy finish.

Bake & Enjoy : Bake in preheated oven for about 60-75 minutes or until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/70°C). Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Now that you’ve made this delectable dish from start to finish, grab your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes or steamed veggies! You’ve got yourself a hearty meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Truth be told, once you try this Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf recipe at home, you might just find yourself making excuses to have friends over more often! Enjoy every savory bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing your ingredients thoroughly; then shape your meatloaf before glazing it. Bake at 350°F for about 60 minutes for juicy perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add veggies like chopped carrots and bell peppers to enhance flavor and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it stays moist.

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my grandma’s kitchen, where we laughed and cooked together, creating our family favorite—her secret meatloaf recipe topped with a glaze that was pure magic!

FAQ

Can I make balsamic glazed meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a day ahead and bake just before serving for best results.

What can I serve with balsamic glazed meatloaf?

Pair it with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for a comforting meal.

How do I know when my meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F when fully cooked.

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Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf

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• Author: platesdaily
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf is a savory dish that combines rich flavors with a sweet glaze, delivering comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Perfect for family dinners, this meatloaf will impress everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

• Ground Beef
• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Balsamic Vinegar
• Ketchup
• Onion
• Garlic Cloves
• Dried Oregano and Thyme
• Salt & Pepper
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic in a skillet over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, sautéed onions, breadcrumbs, egg, herbs, salt, pepper, ketchup, and half of the balsamic vinegar. Mix until just combined.
4. Shape the mixture into a loaf in the prepared pan.
5. In a separate bowl, mix the remaining balsamic vinegar with ketchup; pour over the meatloaf for glazing.
6. Bake for 60–75 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 75 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 19g
• Cholesterol: 70mg