This Honey Mustard Meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic favorite! It blends the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of mustard for a yummy glaze that makes every bite special.
Who knew meatloaf could be this fun? The honey mustard glaze keeps it moist and adds a nice flavor pop. I love serving it with mashed potatoes—dinner just got a lot more exciting!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually use 80/20 ground beef for the right balance of flavor and juiciness. You can swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option; just keep in mind the meatloaf might be less moist and may need extra binding ingredients.
Bread Crumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs give the meatloaf structure. You could use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers if you’re gluten-sensitive. Alternatively, oats make a great binding substitute!
Dijon Mustard: This adds a lovely tang to the glaze. If you’re looking for something milder, yellow mustard could work, or even honey mustard for extra sweetness. Just adjust the honey if you go this route!
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic bring loads of flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use onion powder and garlic powder. Just swap 1 tablespoon of each for the fresh ingredients.
How Can I Make Sure My Meatloaf Stays Moist?
Keeping your meatloaf moist can be tricky, but there are a few ways to achieve this. The key is to avoid overmixing the meat, as this can make it tough. Here are some helpful steps:
- Soak the breadcrumbs in milk before mixing to help keep the loaf moist.
- Add your favorite vegetables, such as grated carrots or zucchini, for additional moisture and nutrition.
- Cover the loaf with foil for the first half of baking to lock in steam, then remove it to let the glaze caramelize at the end.
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious and juicy meatloaf everyone will enjoy! Happy cooking!
How to Make Honey Mustard Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Honey Mustard Glaze:
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for brightness)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for depth)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy Honey Mustard Meatloaf will take about 15 minutes to prepare, followed by around 1 hour of baking time. Don’t forget to let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing! Overall, you’ll be enjoying this delightful dish in about 1 hour and 25 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab a loaf pan and line it with parchment paper or give it a light grease to keep the meatloaf from sticking later on.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, mix together the milk and breadcrumbs. Let them soak for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs are nice and soft. This step helps keep the meatloaf tender and moist!
3. Combine the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, gather your ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Now, mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon. Be careful not to overmix; we want a tender meatloaf, not a tough one!
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Great job! Now transfer the meat mixture into your prepared loaf pan. Shape it evenly so it’s nice and smooth on top.
5. Make the Glaze:
In another small bowl, whisk together the glaze ingredients: Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and soy sauce if you’re using it. This glaze will give your meatloaf that sweet and tangy finish!
6. Apply the Glaze:
Brush about half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will create a delicious crust while baking!
7. Bake:
Pop the meatloaf into the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. The smell in your kitchen is going to be amazing!
8. Add More Glaze:
Once the first 45 minutes are up, take the meatloaf out and brush the rest of the glaze on top. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
9. Rest & Serve:
When it’s done, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep all those juices in! Garnish with some freshly chopped parsley for a nice touch.
10. Enjoy!
Slice and serve your honey mustard meatloaf warm. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or your favorite vegetables. Enjoy this delicious meal with family and friends!
This recipe yields a moist and flavorful meatloaf with a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just be aware that it might need a bit more moisture, so consider adding a splash of broth or an extra egg if you find the mixture too dry.
How Can I Make This Meatloaf Gluten-Free?
To make this meatloaf gluten-free, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or use finely crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that any other sauces or condiments used are also gluten-free!
Can I Freeze Leftover Meatloaf?
Yes! You can freeze leftover meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating!
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Meatloaf?
The best way to reheat meatloaf is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. You can also use a microwave for a quicker option, but it may dry out the meatloaf a bit.
