This honey mustard meatloaf packs a sweet and tangy punch that makes every bite super tasty. It’s made with ground meat, delicious honey mustard, and tasty seasonings!
I can’t help but smile when I slice into this meatloaf. It’s great for leftovers too—it’s like having two meals in one. And trust me, it makes a cozy dinner treat! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A blend of beef and pork gives a nice flavor and moisture to the meatloaf. If you’re looking for a healthier option, lean ground turkey or chicken works well, too, though they may be a bit drier.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer panko breadcrumbs for their light and airy texture, which makes the meatloaf fluffier. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers can do the trick.
Honey Mustard: This ingredient is key for that sweet and tangy flavor! If you want a low-sugar option, mix regular mustard with a touch of honey instead. Dijon mustard also adds a nice kick.
Onion and Garlic: Freshly chopped onion and minced garlic add depth of flavor. For a milder taste, try using shallots or onion powder instead of fresh onion.
How Do I Avoid a Dry Meatloaf?
A moist meatloaf is essential for great taste and texture! Here are some tips to keep it juicy:
- Use a mix of ground meats; a little fat is good for moisture.
- Add milk, as it helps keep the meatloaf moist. Substitute with broth for a lower-fat option.
- Don’t overmix when combining ingredients, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping each slice tender!
Honey Mustard Meatloaf
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup honey mustard (plus extra for glazing)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and approximately 50-60 minutes to cook, making for a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish. Just let it rest for 10 minutes after baking, and you’re all set for a delicious dinner!
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the meatloaf cooks evenly. While the oven is warming up, line a baking dish or loaf pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the ground meat, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, honey mustard, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if you’re using it). It’s best to combine everything well, but remember to be gentle to keep the meatloaf nice and tender!
3. Shape the Loaf
Now, shape the meat mixture into a loaf format—just like a giant meatball! Place this loaf onto your lined baking dish or into the loaf pan. Make it look nice and neat!
4. Glaze it Up
Grab that extra honey mustard and brush it generously over the top of your meatloaf. This will create a lovely glaze while it bakes and add wonderful flavor.
5. Bake the Meatloaf
Pop your meatloaf into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) which indicates it’s fully cooked. You should see a beautiful caramelization on the outside.
6. Rest and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside when you slice it. After resting, you can garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if you like, slice it up, and serve it warm. Enjoy!
The sweet & tangy honey mustard glaze really brings out the flavor in this hearty dish, making it a perfect cozy family dinner option. Happy cooking!
Can I Substitute the Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or even a meat substitute like lentils or plant-based grounds for a vegetarian version. Just keep in mind that leaner meats might need additional moisture to prevent dryness.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just slice it before freezing for easy reheating! It should last about 2-3 months in the freezer.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Yes! Chopped bell peppers, carrots, or even zucchini can be mixed in for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to finely chop them so they blend well into the mixture and cook evenly.
How Do I Know When the Meatloaf is Done?
The best way to check is using a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F (71°C) in the center of the meatloaf. If you don’t have a thermometer, look for a firm texture and no pink juices when you cut into it.