Ultimate Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf for Dinner

Imagine sinking your fork into a slice of the best ever balsamic glazed meatloaf. The aroma wafts through your kitchen like a warm hug on a cold day, teasing your taste buds with promises of savory flavors and tender textures. Each bite bursts with tangy sweetness from the balsamic glaze, perfectly complementing the hearty goodness of the meat.

Now picture this: last Sunday dinner at my place. My dear Uncle Bob was convinced he could out-cook everyone with his infamous “mystery sauce.” Spoiler alert—he couldn’t. Instead, I wowed the crowd with my balsamic glazed masterpiece, and let’s just say my family is still raving about it! Perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy family gathering or an impromptu weeknight dinner—you’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket.

I’ll never forget how my kids’ eyes lit up when they took their first bites of this delightful dish. They were skeptics at first but soon became enthusiastic fans.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ground Beef: Use a mix of lean and fatty beef for optimal flavor and moisture; aim for an 80/20 blend.
• Breadcrumbs: Choose plain breadcrumbs; they help bind the mixture while keeping it tender.
• Eggs: Two large eggs will enrich the mixture and help hold everything together.
• Onion: Finely chop one medium onion; its sweetness adds depth to the overall flavor.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Use high-quality balsamic vinegar for that tangy sweetness in both the glaze and the loaf.
• Ketchup: Adds moisture and a familiar taste; opt for no-sugar-added varieties if desired.
• Garlic Powder: A teaspoon brings an aromatic punch without overpowering other flavors.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all other ingredients—don’t skip them!
• Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds color and freshness; chop it finely before mixing it into the loaf.

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 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking while you prepare the meat mixture.

Sauté Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions until they turn translucent and golden brown. Let them cool slightly before adding them to your mix.

Mix Ingredients Together: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, cooled onions, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half of your balsamic vinegar. Use clean hands to gently mix until just combined.

Shape into Loaf: Transfer the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Shape it into a loaf form; this allows air circulation around it during baking.

Create Balsamic Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together remaining balsamic vinegar and ketchup until smooth. Brush half over the top of your shaped meatloaf before baking for that beautiful sheen.

Bake Until Perfect: Place your meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes or until its internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Once done, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Enjoy creating this deliciously satisfying meal that will leave everyone wanting more!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, mix the meatloaf ingredients in a bowl and shape into a loaf. Bake for 45 minutes and add the glaze in the last ten minutes for that caramelized perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to incorporate diced veggies like bell peppers or carrots into the meat mixture. You can also swap half the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option while still keeping that juicy goodness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover meatloaf wrapped tightly in foil in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat slices in the microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring each bite stays tender.

Nothing warms my heart more than when my kids happily devour this meatloaf, asking if we can have it every week. It’s become our family favorite, especially when I hear them say they love it more than pizza!

FAQ

Can I freeze the Best Ever Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf?

Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze it uncooked or cooked for up to three months.

What can I serve with this meatloaf?

Pair it with mashed potatoes and steamed veggies for a comforting meal everyone will love.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done cooking?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F (71°C) when fully cooked and safe to eat.

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Best Ever Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf Recipe

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Delight in this Best Ever Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf, a savory dish bursting with flavor and a rich, tangy glaze, perfect for family dinners.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onions until translucent. Allow to cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, cooled onions, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half of the balsamic vinegar. Mix gently until just combined.
4. Shape the mixture into a loaf on a lined baking sheet.
5. In a small bowl, mix the remaining balsamic vinegar and ketchup; brush half over the meatloaf.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: - Add diced bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition. - Substitute half of the beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. - Soak breadcrumbs in milk for enhanced moisture.