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Cozy Meatloaf Recipe with Caramelized Onion Glaze

cozy meatloaf with caramelized onion glaze - featured image

A comforting and easy meatloaf recipe topped with a sweet and savory caramelized onion glaze, perfect for cozy dinners and family meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for juiciness)
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • ¾ cup plain breadcrumbs (classic or panko)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: Heat 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium-low heat in a skillet. Add the sliced onions, sprinkle ½ teaspoon salt, and cook slowly, stirring every 5 minutes. After about 15 minutes, add brown sugar and stir. Continue cooking until the onions are deeply golden and soft, about 10-15 minutes more. Stir in balsamic vinegar and pepper, then remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, whole milk, egg, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Gently mix until just combined; do not overwork.
  4. Shape and Place in Pan: Transfer the mixture into a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Press evenly and smooth the top.
  5. Spread the Onion Glaze: Spoon the caramelized onion mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  6. Bake: Place the loaf pan on the center rack and bake for 55-60 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) or juices run clear.
  7. Rest Before Serving: Let the meatloaf sit for 10 minutes after removing from the oven before slicing.

Notes

If the glaze starts to get too dark before the meatloaf finishes cooking, loosely tent it with foil to prevent burning. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to lock in juices. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free oats and use dairy-free milk alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, caramelized onion glaze, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, ground beef, cozy recipe