Description

This homemade meatloaf recipe is a Ketchup-Glazed Loaf with Charred Pepper Stripes, offering a wholesome and deeply satisfying family dinner. It’s an elevated classic that brings rich, savory comfort food to your table.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20)
0.5 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
2 large eggs
1 small onion (approx. 0.5 cup), finely minced
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
0.5 cup ketchup (for the loaf)
0.5 cup ketchup (for the glaze)
2 small bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange)
1 tsp salt
0.5 tsp black pepper
0.5 tsp dried oregano
1 Tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions

Prep Ingredients: Finely mince the onion and garlic. Cut bell peppers into thin, uniform strips for even charring and quick cooking.
Mix Meatloaf Base: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, minced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Form Loaf: Transfer the mixture to a parchment-lined 9×13 inch baking sheet. Shape it into a compact, even loaf about 2 inches high.
Initial Bake: Bake the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.
Prepare Glaze & Peppers: While the meatloaf bakes, whisk 0.5 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.
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.
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.
Rest & Serve: Let the meatloaf rest 10-15 minutes on the baking sheet before slicing. This crucial step ensures a moist, flavorful result.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meat; gentle handling ensures tenderness. Resting is crucial for a juicy meatloaf as juices redistribute. Consider using crushed gluten-free crackers instead of breadcrumbs for a dietary-friendly version, or low-sugar ketchup for a healthier profile. For a brighter, more vibrant flavor, use fresh herbs instead of dried. Choose quality ground beef from a reputable butcher and firm, brightly colored bell peppers for maximum visual appeal and taste. If the glaze starts to char too quickly during the final bake, loosely tent with foil.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 170 g)
Calories: 350 calories
Sugar: 15 g
Sodium: 550 mg
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 25 g
Cholesterol: 80 mg

Keywords: meatloaf, comfort food, family dinner, ketchup glaze, bell peppers, savory, baked, easy, classic, ground beef