Homemade Meatloaf Recipe Ketchup-Glazed Loaf With Charred Pepper Stripes

Imagine that ultimate comfort food aroma filling my kitchen – rich, savory, and undeniably satisfying. This homemade meatloaf recipe, a Ketchup-Glazed Loaf with Charred Pepper Stripes, promises to deliver those cozy vibes. It’s a perfect family dinner, offering a wholesome and deeply satisfying meal even on busy weeknights. This isn’t just any meatloaf; it’s an elevated classic that’s become a go-to for my family.

What You’ll Need (Ingredients and Key Roles)

To create this truly memorable homemade meatloaf recipe, gather these fresh and hearty ingredients. Each plays a vital role in achieving that perfect texture and flavor.

• Ground Beef (80/20 for optimal flavor and moisture) – 1.5 lbs (680g), the hearty base for a juicy meatloaf.
• Breadcrumbs (plain or panko) – 1/2 cup (60g), essential for binding ingredients and adding texture. (Swap: Use crushed gluten-free crackers for a dietary-friendly version.)
• Eggs – 2 large, another essential binder for structure and richness.
• Onion & Garlic (finely minced) – 1 small onion (approx. 1/2 cup), 2 cloves garlic, aromatics providing depth of savory flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce – 1 Tbsp (15ml), adds umami and complex notes.
• Ketchup – 1/2 cup (120ml) for the loaf, plus 1/2 cup (120ml) for the glaze, the star of our tangy-sweet finish. (Swap: Opt for a low-sugar ketchup for a healthier profile.)
• Bell Peppers (red, yellow, or orange) – 2 small, for charred stripes and a smoky-sweet finish on our Ketchup-Glazed Loaf with Charred Pepper Stripes.
• Seasonings (salt, black pepper, a pinch of dried herbs like oregano or thyme) – 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, for balanced seasoning.

Smart Swaps & Optional Upgrades:

• Upgrade: Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
• Health-focused: Opt for leaner ground meat, organic ketchup, and ensure fresh, vibrant bell peppers for a healthy dinner option.

Notes on Sourcing:

Choose quality ground beef from a reputable butcher for the best results. Select firm, brightly colored bell peppers for maximum visual appeal and taste.

Step-by-Step Cooking Method

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Finely mince the onion and garlic. If using bell peppers for stripes, cut them into thin, uniform strips for even charring and quick cooking.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Base: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, minced aromatics, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Mix until just combined, feeling the ingredients come together. I find a light hand here is key to prevent a tough homemade meatloaf recipe.
3. Form the Loaf: Transfer the mixture to a parchment-lined 9×13 inch baking sheet. Shape it into a compact, even loaf about 2 inches high, which is ideal for glazing our Ketchup-Glazed Loaf with Charred Pepper Stripes.
4. Initial Bake: Bake the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. The edges should start to firm up and turn light brown.
5. Prepare Glaze & Peppers: While the meatloaf bakes, whisk 1/2 cup ketchup, 1 Tbsp brown sugar, and 1 tsp apple cider vinegar until smooth for the glaze. Lightly char bell pepper strips on a hot skillet or under the broiler for 3-5 minutes until softened and smoky. This adds a lovely dimension to our Ketchup-Glazed Loaf with Charred Pepper Stripes.
6. Glaze and Stripe: Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Evenly spread the tangy ketchup glaze over the top with a spatula. Artfully arrange the charred bell pepper stripes, pressing them lightly to adhere.
7. Final Bake: Return the meatloaf to the oven for another 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with a thermometer. The glaze should be beautifully caramelized and bubbly, indicating it’s done. If the glaze starts to char too quickly, loosely tent with foil.
8. Rest & Serve: Let your homemade meatloaf recipe Ketchup-Glazed Loaf with Charred Pepper Stripes rest 10-15 minutes on the baking sheet before slicing. This crucial step ensures a moist, flavorful result as juices redistribute.

Mini Callouts:

• Don’t overmix the meat; gentle handling ensures tenderness.
• Resting is crucial for a juicy homemade meatloaf recipe.

Perfect Occasions and Pairings

• A quintessential weekday dinner – easy, hearty, and satisfying.
• A comforting Sunday supper to gather the family.
• Great for casual gatherings or potlucks.
• Meal Prep: This homemade meatloaf recipe stores well in the fridge (3-4 days) or freezer (3 months). Reheat gently for quick meals.

Wellness and Everyday Benefits of Homemade Meatloaf Recipe

• A balanced, high-protein family meal with lean meat and bell peppers.
• An easy dinner solution for busy schedules and healthy eating.
• Great for healthy meal prep ideas.
• A nourishing snack with cold slices of your Ketchup-Glazed Loaf with Charred Pepper Stripes.

Customizing the Recipe for Your Needs

• Moisture: Add ¼ cup milk or beef broth.
• Flavor: Brown and drain ground meat first.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for your homemade meatloaf recipe.
• Low-Carb: Use ½ cup almond flour; keto-friendly ketchup.
• Dairy-Free: Ensure all ingredients are dairy-free.
• Safety: Cook to 160°F (71°C); check labels.

Common Questions Answered

“Is homemade meatloaf a healthy option?”

Yes, with lean ground meat, fresh veggies, and a balanced glaze, this Ketchup-Glazed Loaf with Charred Pepper Stripes offers a nutritious, high-protein family meal.

“Can I freeze homemade meatloaf for later?”

Absolutely, this homemade meatloaf recipe freezes well; slices or a whole loaf store up to three months for convenient meal prep.

“What’s the best substitute if I don’t have breadcrumbs?”

Crushed crackers or rolled oats (½ cup each) are great binders; I often use oats for moisture in my homemade meatloaf recipe.

“How do I prevent my meatloaf from being dry?”

Use 15-20% fat ground beef, avoid overmixing, and add moisture like eggs, milk, or grated onion.

“Can I make this homemade meatloaf recipe in an air fryer?”

Yes, individual portions of this homemade meatloaf recipe cook well in an air fryer; adjust time and temperature accordingly.

“What’s the secret to a great ketchup glaze for meatloaf?”

A great glaze for this Ketchup-Glazed Loaf with Charred Pepper Stripes balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, often using ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.

Conclusion

This homemade meatloaf recipe is a comforting classic made easy, promising a flavorful, satisfying meal your family will love. Save this easy dinner idea for your next weeknight meal; pin it to your favorite family-friendly recipe board!

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