Meatloaf Recipe With Tomato-Glazed Crimson Crust

As a home cook who cherishes dependable meals, I’ve perfected this meatloaf recipe With Tomato-Glazed Crimson Crust for my own family. The aroma alone—a savory blend of beef and sweet tomato—promises a truly special, family-friendly dinner. This easy dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights, transforming simple ingredients into a show-stopping dish your kids will ask for again and again, even when juggling homework and after-school activities.

Ingredient Essentials & Benefits for Your Best Meatloaf

Crafting a flavorful meatloaf recipe starts with quality components. My personal preference is to always choose fresh herbs for their superior taste.

• Ground Beef: 2 lbs (900g), 80/20 ratio for optimal flavor and moisture, or leaner options for a healthy alternative.
• Binder & Moisture: 1 cup (90g) breadcrumbs (panko for lighter texture, or plain); 1/2 cup (120ml) milk (dairy or unsweetened plant-based if preferred) or beef broth; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten (binds ingredients).
• Aromatics & Seasoning: 1 small onion, finely diced (adds depth); 2 cloves garlic, minced (essential flavor); 1/4 cup (10g) fresh parsley, chopped (brightens taste); 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp dried thyme (classic meatloaf herb).
• Crimson Glaze: 1 cup (240g) ketchup (organic ketchup for a premium ingredient choice); 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar (balances tang); 1 tbsp (15ml) apple cider vinegar (adds zest); 1 tsp (5ml) Worcestershire sauce (umami boost).
• Healthy Options: Consider lean ground turkey for a high-protein meal, whole wheat breadcrumbs, or low-sodium broth to reduce sodium intake.
• Smart Substitutions: Gluten-free breadcrumbs are excellent for dietary needs. Grated zucchini can replace some onion for extra moisture and hidden veggies (my family never notices).
• Freshness Notes: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme truly elevate the dish. Always use fresh garlic for the best flavor impact. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the crimson glaze beautifully.

Easy Prep & Cook Instructions for a Perfect Crimson Crust Meatloaf

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9″x13″ baking dish or line a sheet pan with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, diced onion, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix just until combined; overmixing can make your meatloaf tough. If the mixture looks too wet, add 1-2 tablespoons of extra breadcrumbs until it holds its shape.
3. Step 3: Form the mixture into an oblong loaf shape, approximately 9 inches long and 4 inches wide. Place it carefully in the prepared dish, ensuring even thickness for consistent baking.
4. Step 4: Bake for 40 minutes, until the edges begin to firm and lightly brown. While it bakes, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl for the delicious glaze.
5. Step 5: Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Carefully spread the rich tomato glaze evenly over the top, creating that beautiful, signature crimson crust. Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
6. Step 6: Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a wonderfully moist result when sliced.

Quick Hacks:

• Chop your vegetables in a food processor for faster prep, saving precious time on busy weeknights.
• Prepare the entire crimson glaze while the meatloaf bakes for seamless meal flow.

Variations:

• For a kid-friendly meatloaf recipe, use finely grated onion and a slightly milder glaze (less vinegar).
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a subtle spicy kick.
• Incorporate shredded carrots or finely diced bell peppers into the mix for a lighter, veggie-packed meatloaf recipe.

Troubleshooting:

• To prevent dry meatloaf, avoid overmixing and always use a meat thermometer to ensure you don’t overbake past 160°F (71°C).
• If your crimson glaze becomes too thick, thin it with a tiny bit of water or a splash of broth until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

Ideal Serving Moments & Pairings for Hearty Meatloaf Dinners

This meatloaf recipe With Tomato-Glazed Crimson Crust is perfect for easy weeknight dinners, Sunday suppers, or family gatherings, and excellent for meal prep. Serve it with mashed potatoes and green beans, plus extra glaze.

Wellness & Nutrition Advantages of This Meatloaf Recipe

This meatloaf recipe With Tomato-Glazed Crimson Crust offers high-quality protein for satiety and energy. Paired with vegetables, it creates a balanced meal, ideal for healthy family dinners and easy dinner ideas.

Everyday Value: Budget-Friendly & Time-Saving Meatloaf

Crafting this delicious meatloaf recipe With Tomato-Glazed Crimson Crust is both budget-friendly and time-saving. With just 1.5 hours total time and $2-$4 per serving, it’s an economical and versatile family dinner, adaptable for kids or specific diets.

Ingredient Sourcing & Smart Shopping Tips for Meatloaf

Ensure the best flavor for your meatloaf recipe With Tomato-Glazed Crimson Crust by sourcing quality ground beef, fresh produce, and stocking up on pantry staples. Consider online grocery delivery for convenience.

Expert Adjustments & Safety Notes for Your Meatloaf

For a crispier meatloaf recipe With Tomato-Glazed Crimson Crust, I cook it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet; this allows fat to drain. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure 160°F (71°C) internal temp for food safety. Experiment with herb blends, adjust glaze sweetness, and use gluten-free swaps as needed for this delicious meatloaf recipe.

FAQs About Our Delicious Meatloaf Recipe

Is this meatloaf recipe good for weight management?

Yes, absolutely. By opting for lean ground meat, practicing portion control, and serving with a generous amount of vegetable sides, this meatloaf can certainly be a valuable part of a balanced diet aimed at weight management. It provides essential protein to keep you feeling satisfied.

What’s the best way to store cooked meatloaf?

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer-term meal prep, it freezes exceptionally well for up to three months. When ready to reheat, gently warm slices in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through, or microwave smaller portions.

Can I swap ground beef with healthier alternatives in this meatloaf?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work great as leaner options, using a 1:1 swap ratio for the ground beef. For a vegetarian option, consider a lentil-based meatloaf recipe; you’d typically use 2 cups of cooked lentils to replace 1 lb of ground meat.

How do I prevent my meatloaf from being dry?

To ensure a juicy meatloaf recipe, avoid overmixing the meat mixture during preparation; I find that mixing just until combined keeps it tender. Overcooking is another common culprit for dryness, so always bake until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Adding moisture through milk or broth also helps significantly.

Conclusion

This meatloaf recipe With Tomato-Glazed Crimson Crust truly delivers a satisfying, easy, and nutritious meal that my family always enjoys. Pin this family-friendly meatloaf recipe now to simplify your healthy eating and meal planning!

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