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Glazed Grandma's meatloaf fresh out of the oven with caramelized top

Grandma's Best Meatloaf

A classic, comforting meatloaf recipe passed down through generations — simple, quality ingredients, sautéed vegetables, and Grandma's signature ketchup-brown sugar glaze.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • ground beef 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for optimal juiciness
  • fresh breadcrumbs soaked in milk
  • onions and garlic, finely diced
  • bell peppers for sweetness and color
  • eggs farm-fresh, as binding agents
  • Worcestershire sauce for depth
  • thyme and parsley herb blend
  • ketchup, brown sugar, and a touch of vinegar Grandma's special glaze

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Sauté the vegetables until translucent—never skip this step.
  3. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl, mixing gently with your hands.
  4. Shape into a loaf in a baking dish, avoiding over-packing.
  5. Brush with half the glaze before baking.
  6. Bake for 40 minutes, then add remaining glaze.
  7. Continue baking until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  8. Allow to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Never skip sautéing the vegetables until translucent — it's key to the flavor. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing so the juices redistribute. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and fresh green beans, as Grandma always did.