This honey mustard meatloaf is a fun twist on a classic dish! The sweet and tangy glaze makes it super tasty, and it’s packed with juicy goodness.
I love making this meatloaf because it brings everyone to the table. Plus, it’s easy to slice up and saves well for lunch the next day—if there’s any left! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using a mix of ground beef and pork for richness. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey works well too. Just remember, it might be less fatty, so you could add a little olive oil for moisture.
Onion: I use a yellow onion for sweetness, but you can substitute it with shallots if you like a milder flavor. Chopped green onions can also be a fun twist!
Red Bell Pepper: This adds color and sweetness. If you don’t have it on hand, any bell pepper works, or even zucchini for a different texture. Just make sure they are finely chopped.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer plain breadcrumbs. But feel free to use Panko for extra crunch or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. Even crushed crackers or oats can work as a good substitute!
Honey Mustard Glaze: Dijon mustard provides a great kick, but if you want it milder, yellow mustard is fine. I also love using maple syrup in place of honey for a unique flavor!
How Do I Get a Tender Meatloaf?
Getting the perfect texture in your meatloaf is all about mixing and baking! To keep it tender, follow these tips:
- When combining the ingredients, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can make it dense.
- Using soaked breadcrumbs helps retain moisture. If you’re in a rush, save time but don’t skip this step!
- Letting the meatloaf rest after baking allows juices to redistribute, making each slice juicy.
With these steps, you’ll have a meatloaf that’s soft, moist, and everyone will love!
How to Make Honey Mustard Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
For the Honey Mustard Glaze:
- 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need about 1 hour to bake. Make sure to let it rest for 10 minutes after baking. In total, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 20 minutes, but it’s well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). To keep things clean, line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or oil.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk. Let them sit for about 5 minutes until they’re nice and soft.
3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or your chosen mix), chopped onion, red bell pepper, the soaked breadcrumbs, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme if you’re using it. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon—don’t overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough!
4. Shape Your Meatloaf:
Now, shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape. You can do this right on the prepared baking tray, or place it neatly in your loaf pan if you prefer a more uniform shape.
5. Make the Honey Mustard Glaze:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and paprika if you want a little kick. This glaze is what makes our meatloaf special!
6. Glaze the Meatloaf:
Spread about half of the honey mustard glaze on top of the shaped meatloaf, making sure it’s evenly covered.
7. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in your preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes. After that, take it out and brush it with the remaining glaze.
8. Finish Baking:
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Your meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) and the glaze is beautifully caramelized.
9. Rest and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices settle, making for a juicier slice!
10. Garnish:
Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top to add a lovely touch of color and flavor.
Now, enjoy your savory and slightly sweet honey mustard meatloaf! Serve with your favorite sides, and watch everyone come back for seconds! 😊
Can I Use Lean Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Lean ground turkey is a great option for a lighter meatloaf. Just keep in mind it may turn out a bit drier, so adding a little extra moisture, like olive oil or a splash of beef broth, can help keep it juicy.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Adding a little splash of broth can help keep it moist!
Can I Make This Meatloaf Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Oats or a mixture of ground nuts can also be used as a binder for a different texture.
What Sides Pair Well With Honey Mustard Meatloaf?
This meatloaf goes wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad. For a heartier option, consider serving it with macaroni and cheese or roasted Brussels sprouts!
