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Meatloaf is a quintessential comfort food that evokes nostalgia, often reminding us of cozy family dinners and heartwarming meals shared around the dining table. This Savory Homestyle Meatloaf with Sweet Tomato Glaze is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great option for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike. The combination of ground beef and pork creates a flavorful and moist loaf, while the sweet tomato glaze adds a delightful finishing touch that makes this dish stand out.

Homestyle Meatloaf with a Tomato Glaze

Discover the heartwarming comfort of Savory Homestyle Meatloaf with Sweet Tomato Glaze, perfect for family dinners or impressing guests. This easy-to-make recipe blends ground beef and pork for a juicy loaf, enhanced with sautéed vegetables and seasonings. The sweet tomato glaze adds a delightful finishing touch. Learn about ingredient roles, preparation steps, and creative serving ideas to elevate this classic dish, creating lasting memories around the dinner table.
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Ingredients
  

1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for optimal flavor)

1/2 pound ground pork (for added moisture)

1 cup breadcrumbs (choose plain or Italian seasoned)

1/2 cup milk

1/2 cup onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 large egg

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon preferred)

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a touch of smokiness)

For the Tomato Glaze:

1/2 cup ketchup

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.

    Sauté Vegetables: Heat a drizzle of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

      Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Add the cooled sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped parsley, egg, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Using your hands or a spoon, mix gently until everything is just combined. (Tip: Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.)

        Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture into a lined or lightly greased loaf pan. Press down firmly to form a cohesive shape, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface.

          Prepare Tomato Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder until well blended and smooth.

            Glaze the Meatloaf: Pour half of the prepared tomato glaze over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Set the remaining glaze aside for later basting.

              Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 1 hour. At the 30-minute mark, brush the reserved tomato glaze over the meatloaf for added flavor.

                Check for Doneness: To determine if the meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C). If it hasn't reached the desired temperature, continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes.

                  Rest and Serve: Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps to lock in the juices. Once rested, slice and serve with creamy mashed potatoes or your favorite side vegetables for a complete meal.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour 15 minutes | 6 servings

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve the meatloaf on a rustic wooden cutting board, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Consider adding a side of colorful roasted vegetables to create a vibrant plate.