Classic Glazed Meatloaf

The Classic Glazed Meatloaf is a comforting, hearty dish that brings warmth to any dinner table. Made with ground beef, aromatic garlic and onions, and finished with a sweet and tangy ketchup-based glaze, this meatloaf is a nostalgic favorite that’s elevated with a few gourmet touches. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Whether you’re cooking for a casual weekday meal or a cozy weekend dinner, this meatloaf hits all the right notes. The glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, giving every slice a delicious contrast of textures and flavors. Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even on a sandwich the next day — the options are endless.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80–85% lean)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• ⅓ cup milk

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Glaze:

• ¾ cup ketchup

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp yellow mustard

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, garlic, onion, eggs, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined—do not overmix.

3. Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan or shape into a loaf on the baking sheet.

4. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth.

5. Spread half the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.

6. Bake for 40–45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

7. During the last 10 minutes of baking, spread the remaining glaze on top and return to the oven.

8. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 335 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Introduction to Ina Garten’s Iconic Meatloaf

When you think of comfort food, meatloaf is often one of the first dishes that comes to mind. Few versions of this beloved classic are as revered as Ina Garten’s Glazed Meatloaf. Known for her elegant yet approachable recipes, Ina Garten—also known as the Barefoot Contessa—has a knack for transforming humble ingredients into gourmet experiences. Her take on meatloaf is no exception. Featuring ground beef, a subtle blend of seasonings, and a sweet-savory glaze, this meatloaf achieves the perfect balance between hearty and refined.

The Culinary Legacy of Ina Garten

Ina Garten has long been a household name for home cooks who appreciate straightforward instructions paired with reliable results. Her culinary philosophy revolves around fresh, quality ingredients and simplified techniques that anyone can follow. Over the years, her meatloaf recipe has become a favorite across dinner tables nationwide because it embodies everything her brand stands for: comfort, ease, and taste.

This particular recipe, much like many of her other creations, reflects a blend of classic Americana with subtle gourmet enhancements. Ina’s meatloaf respects tradition while elevating it through refined seasoning and the clever use of a ketchup-based glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

Why This Meatloaf Stands Out

There are dozens of meatloaf recipes available, from your grandma’s handwritten notes to viral TikTok versions. So what makes Ina Garten’s meatloaf special?

1. Balanced Flavor Profile:
This recipe offers a well-rounded taste. The garlic and onions provide savory depth, Worcestershire sauce brings umami, and the ketchup glaze adds a delightful sweetness with a touch of tang. It’s a complex profile made simple.

2. Moisture-Retaining Ingredients:
Unlike many meatloaves that can turn dry or crumbly, this recipe includes milk and eggs which act as natural moisturizers. Breadcrumbs bind the meat together while keeping the texture tender rather than dense.

3. Customizable Yet Foolproof:
While Ina’s original recipe is perfect as-is, it’s also forgiving and versatile. Want to sneak in some veggies? Go ahead. Prefer turkey to beef? That works too. The base holds up to adaptation without compromising structure or flavor.

4. Perfectly Textured Glaze:
The glaze—ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard—does more than just sit on top. As it bakes, it forms a sticky, flavorful crust that contrasts beautifully with the juicy meat underneath.

Ingredients: Simple Yet Impactful

You’ll find no fancy or inaccessible items in this meatloaf. Every ingredient has a purpose and is likely already in your pantry:

• Ground beef (80-85% lean): Offers the best balance between moisture and structure.

• Garlic and onions: Aromatics that create a savory backbone.

• Eggs and milk: Add richness and ensure moistness.

• Breadcrumbs: Bind the loaf together without overpowering the meat’s natural flavor.

• Worcestershire sauce and Italian seasoning: Provide depth and complexity.

• Ketchup, brown sugar, mustard: The magic glaze trio.

This minimal ingredient list is one of the recipe’s greatest strengths. It’s proof that you don’t need a long shopping list to achieve maximum flavor.

Perfect for All Occasions

This isn’t just a meal you save for Sunday dinner. Ina Garten’s meatloaf is:

• Weeknight Friendly: Preps quickly and bakes while you do other tasks.

• Holiday-Worthy: Add a few sides, and it becomes the centerpiece.

• Meal Prep Gold: Slices beautifully for sandwiches or reheats well for leftovers.

• Kid-Approved: The sweet glaze and tender texture are a hit with picky eaters.

Few dishes manage to cater to such a wide audience and so many scenarios. It’s a one-size-fits-all comfort food.

Health and Nutritional Value

Though meatloaf has a reputation for being indulgent, this recipe is surprisingly balanced when portioned correctly. Each serving comes in around 335 calories, making it a satisfying yet controlled meal option.

You can also lighten it up without sacrificing taste:

• Use ground turkey or chicken for lower fat.

• Replace breadcrumbs with oats for more fiber.

• Add shredded vegetables like zucchini or carrots for nutrients and moisture.

These small swaps can transform the dish into a health-forward version that still satisfies your cravings.

Cooking Tips from the Pros

Even the simplest recipes can benefit from a few expert tips. Here’s how to make sure your Ina Garten meatloaf turns out flawless every time:

• Don’t Overmix: This can lead to a dense, chewy loaf. Use your hands or a spatula to gently fold the ingredients until just combined.

• Use a Thermometer: Cook the loaf to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This ensures doneness without drying it out.

• Rest Before Slicing: Letting the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking helps redistribute juices and makes for cleaner slices.

• Double the Glaze: If you love extra sauce, make a second batch to serve on the side.

These tips not only refine your technique but also ensure consistent results, which is essential for any home cook.

Serving Suggestions That Elevate the Meal

While meatloaf is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes turns a good meal into a great one. Here are a few classic and modern accompaniments:

• Mashed Potatoes: A creamy, buttery bed for your savory meatloaf.

• Green Beans Almondine: A crisp, nutty contrast.

• Roasted Carrots or Brussels Sprouts: Adds color and caramelized sweetness.

• Mac and Cheese: A decadent comfort duo.

• Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: Balances the richness with fresh acidity.

You can even serve leftover slices cold in sandwiches with pickles and spicy mustard—an entirely new meal with minimal effort.

Storage and Leftovers

This meatloaf not only tastes better the next day—it stores beautifully:

• In the Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Wrap in foil to retain moisture when reheating.

• In the Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.

• Reheating Tips: Oven reheating at 350°F for 10–15 minutes keeps it moist. For quick meals, microwave individual slices for 60–90 seconds.

Its longevity makes it a dream for meal planning. One loaf can stretch across multiple meals, saving time and money.

Audience Favorites and Feedback

Home cooks everywhere rave about this recipe, often calling it “the only meatloaf I’ll ever make again.” Testimonials highlight its juiciness, balanced flavors, and the irresistible glaze. For families with children, it’s a consistent crowd-pleaser. For working professionals, it offers reliable weeknight comfort. And for beginner cooks, it’s a confidence-building win.

Social media platforms and recipe forums are filled with positive reviews, creative adaptations, and presentation ideas. The meatloaf even garners praise from skeptics who previously claimed to dislike the dish—until they tried Ina’s version.

Conclusion

Ina Garten’s Glazed Meatloaf is more than just a recipe—it’s a modern culinary classic that brings people together around the table. With its perfect blend of savory meat, tender texture, and sweet-tangy glaze, this dish delivers maximum comfort with minimal effort. It’s a recipe that respects tradition while adding gourmet touches that elevate the experience.

Whether you’re preparing a quiet meal at home or cooking for a large family gathering, this meatloaf fits the bill. It’s adaptable, approachable, and absolutely delicious. Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a staple in your kitchen—just like it has for countless others around the world.

Let this timeless recipe remind you that the best dishes are often the simplest—especially when they come from a trusted source like Ina Garten.