If you’re craving a comforting classic that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Ultimate Beef and Pork Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Recipe is just what you need. This flavorful combination of juicy ground beef and pork creates a tender, moist meatloaf perfect for family dinners or meal prep. The mouthwatering tangy glaze adds a delightful balance of sweet and acidity that elevates every bite. Trust me, this dish brings together simple ingredients to deliver big on taste and satisfaction!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building that perfect texture and flavor profile. From the rich blend of beef and pork to the special tangy glaze components, each item brings something essential to the table.
- 1 pound Ground Beef: Adds hearty flavor and juiciness; ground chuck is ideal.
- 1 pound Ground Pork: Gives moisture and tenderness, balancing out the beef.
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs: Use panko for a lighter texture that keeps the meatloaf from getting dense.
- 1/2 cup Milk: Softens breadcrumbs and adds richness; lactose-free works well too.
- 1 large Beaten Egg: Acts as the binder holding everything together securely.
- 1 cup Chopped Onion: Sauté first to sweeten and deepen flavor complexity.
- 3 cloves Minced Garlic: Provides a fragrant punch; garlic powder can substitute in a hurry.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds just the right touch of heat and depth.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Layers in extra savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder: Complements the fresh onions with mild sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika: Brings a lovely smoky undertone that makes the meatloaf unforgettable.
- 1/2 cup Ketchup: The base of the tangy glaze; can be swapped with barbecue sauce for a twist.
- 1/4 cup Brown Sugar: Balances acidity with natural sweetness; maple syrup is a great healthier alternative.
- 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar: Gives the glaze its signature tangy zip; red wine vinegar works too.
How to Make Ultimate Beef and Pork Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Breadcrumbs
Kick things off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes until they’re soft and ready to blend seamlessly into the meat mixture. This little step ensures your meatloaf won’t be dry or crumbly.
Step 2: Mix the Meat and Flavorful Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Add the beaten egg, sautéed onions, minced garlic, and all the seasonings—including salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Gently fold in the soaked breadcrumbs, mixing just enough to unify everything without overworking the meat. This keeps your meatloaf tender and juicy.
Step 3: Shape and Glaze Your Meatloaf
Transfer the meat mixture to a greased baking sheet or loaf pan, shaping it into a neat loaf form. For the tangy glaze, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Reserve half of this glaze for later, then evenly spread the other half over the top of the meatloaf to lock in moisture and flavor during baking.
Step 4: Bake and Finish with Glaze
Bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes covered with the first glaze layer. Afterward, brush the remaining glaze on top and continue baking for another 15–20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Letting it rest for 10 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, making every slice perfect.
How to Serve Ultimate Beef and Pork Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme sprinkled on top add a lovely pop of color and a touch of brightness against the rich meatloaf. A light drizzle of extra glaze on each slice can enhance that tangy sweetness even more.
Side Dishes
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables, or even a crisp green salad for balance. Whatever you choose, it’s a meal that brings everyone together instantly.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual comfort, slice and serve the meatloaf open-faced on your favorite bread with some melted cheese. Or plate it elegantly with a drizzle of glaze and a colorful vegetable medley for a dinner party that wows.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After serving, wrap any leftover meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge. Properly stored, it stays fresh for 3 to 4 days and retains all its juicy goodness.
Freezing
If you want to keep the Ultimate Beef and Pork Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Recipe for longer, freeze it wrapped well in plastic followed by aluminum foil or in a freezer-safe container. It will maintain its delicious flavor and texture for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) until warmed through, about 15–20 minutes, to avoid drying out. You can also microwave slices covered with a moist paper towel for a quick fix that keeps moisture locked in.
FAQs
Can I use all ground beef instead of mixing beef and pork?
You certainly can! Using all ground beef will result in a slightly leaner meatloaf, which might be less moist. Adding pork helps keep the texture tender and juicy, but feel free to adjust based on your preferences.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?
While this particular Ultimate Beef and Pork Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Recipe relies on meat, you can experiment with plant-based grounds and a flax egg as a binder. Just keep in mind cooking times and textures may vary.
What’s the best way to make sure the meatloaf stays moist?
Soaking breadcrumbs in milk and combining two types of ground meat are key steps to moisture. Also, avoid overmixing the meat and do rest the meatloaf after baking before slicing.
Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix everything together the day before and refrigerate it, which actually allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just shape and bake right before serving.
What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar for the glaze?
Red wine vinegar is an excellent substitute and delivers a similar tangy brightness. You could also try white vinegar mixed with a bit of honey to mimic sweetness and acidity if needed.
Final Thoughts
Making the Ultimate Beef and Pork Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Recipe is like creating a little piece of comfort food magic right at home. It’s approachable, packed with flavor, and sure to bring smiles around the dinner table. I promise once you try this recipe, it’ll become a steadfast favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Ultimate Beef and Pork Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Ultimate Beef and Pork Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Delight combines succulent ground beef and pork with a flavorful mix of spices, breadcrumbs, and a sweet-and-sour glaze. Perfectly baked to juicy tenderness and topped with a rich, tangy sauce, this comforting classic is ideal for family dinners and meal prepping.
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 1 pound Ground Beef (Try using all ground pork for a richer taste.)
- 1 pound Ground Pork (Adds moisture and tenderness.)
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Opt for panko for a lighter texture.)
- 1/2 cup Milk (Lactose-free milk is a great substitute.)
- 1 large Beaten Egg (Can be replaced with a flax egg for vegan needs.)
- 1 cup Chopped Onion (Sautéed to enhance sweetness.)
- 3 cloves Minced Garlic (Garlic powder works in a pinch.)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to your liking.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Tailor to your taste preference.)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Boosts richness.)
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Delivers extra flavor depth.)
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Infuses wonderful smokiness.)
Glaze
- 1/2 cup Ketchup (Consider swapping with barbecue sauce.)
- 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Maple syrup is a healthier alternative.)
- 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar (Red wine vinegar can be used instead.)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) ensuring it reaches the desired temperature before baking for even cooking.
- Soak Breadcrumbs: In a mixing bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes until softened, which helps keep the meatloaf moist.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: Combine ground beef, ground pork, beaten egg, sautéed onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and the soaked breadcrumbs. Mix gently to evenly incorporate all ingredients without compacting the meat too much.
- Shape Meatloaf: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape on a greased baking sheet or place it in a loaf pan for traditional shape and easy cleanup.
- Prepare Glaze: Whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Reserve half for later use.
- Apply Initial Glaze and Bake: Spread half of the prepared glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to set the crust and start cooking the interior.
- Apply Remaining Glaze and Continue Baking: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the remaining glaze on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), ensuring it’s safely cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes outside the oven. This helps the juices redistribute, making the slices moist and tender when cut.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use all ground pork instead of beef and pork mixture.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, less dense texture.
- Sauté onions before mixing to enhance their sweetness and reduce moisture in the meatloaf.
- To make it dairy-free, substitute milk with lactose-free or plant-based milk alternatives.
- For a vegetarian or vegan version, replace meat with a plant-based ground substitute and use a flax egg.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safe doneness.
- Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to retain moisture.
