This honey mustard meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic favorite. It’s sweet, tangy, and super easy to make, using simple ingredients like ground meat, honey, and mustard.
Believe me, the glaze on top is a game changer. It adds a nice touch that makes your house smell amazing while cooking. I love serving it with mashed potatoes for a cozy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: For the best flavor, I like using a mix of ground beef and pork. However, you can also try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that turkey may be leaner, so adding a bit more fat can help keep it moist.
Onion & Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic are key for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, onion powder and garlic powder can work as substitutes, but fresh ingredients give the best taste. I recommend finely chopping the onion for a uniform texture.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer plain breadcrumbs for this recipe. If you don’t have any, crushed crackers or rolled oats can do the trick. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats.
Honey and Dijon Mustard: This combination creates a sweet and tangy glaze. If you’re out of Dijon, yellow mustard can be a substitute, though it will change the flavor a bit. Maple syrup can also replace honey if you want a different kind of sweetness.
How Do I Ensure My Meatloaf Stays Moist?
Keeping your meatloaf moist is all about the mixing and baking technique. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix gently! When combining the meat with other ingredients, handle it with care. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
- Use moist ingredients like soaked breadcrumbs and milk. This helps to keep the mixture juicy.
- Don’t skip the resting period! Letting it sit for 10 minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice.
- If you notice that your meatloaf starts to dry out, try adding a little beef broth or additional glaze on top for moisture.
Honey Mustard Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (plus extra for garnish)
For the Honey Mustard Glaze:
- 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 1 hour for baking. You’ll want to let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after it comes out of the oven. Altogether, you can expect to spend about 1 hour and 25 minutes from start to finish, but it’s worth every minute!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, go ahead and line a loaf pan with parchment paper. If you don’t have parchment paper, just lightly grease the pan with cooking spray or a bit of oil.
2. Soften the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the milk. Allow them to soak for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the meatloaf moist by absorbing the milk.
3. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together gently until well combined. Make sure not to overmix—it’s important for keeping the meatloaf tender!
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
With your hands, shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared loaf pan, or you can place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet if you prefer a rustic look.
5. Make the Glaze:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice) to create the glaze. This is where the magic happens!
6. Add the Glaze:
Spread half of the honey mustard glaze evenly across the top of the meatloaf. This will give it a beautiful flavor and color while it bakes.
7. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 minutes. After that time, take it out and spread the remaining glaze on top for an even tastier finish.
8. Finish Baking:
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and a meat thermometer reads 160°F (71°C).
9. Rest & Slice:
Once done, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside. When ready, slice it into pieces and garnish with fresh thyme if you like!
10. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your honey mustard meatloaf warm with your favorite sides, like creamy mashed potatoes or tasty roasted vegetables. Enjoy this delicious and unique take on a classic dish!
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative. Just keep in mind that these meats can be dryer than beef, so you might want to add a bit more moisture, such as an extra egg or some olive oil, to keep it juicy.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly!
Can I Make Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, just shape it into a loaf and add the glaze before cooking. This can save you time on busy days!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Glaze?
If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of honey or add a bit more mustard to balance the flavors. You can also experiment with the acidity by using more vinegar if you like tanginess.