Southern Nana’s Classic Meatloaf Recipe with Sweet & Tangy Glaze A Comfort Food Staple That Never Goes Out of Style

 Southern Nana’s Classic Meatloaf Recipe with Sweet & Tangy Glaze

A Comfort Food Staple That Never Goes Out of Style

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If you're craving a soul-warming, hearty dish that brings back memories of family dinners and cozy evenings, Southern Nana’s Meatloaf is the answer. This isn’t your average meatloaf — it’s a time-tested, flavor-packed recipe passed down through generations, topped with a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes to perfection. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or looking for the perfect make-ahead meal, this Southern meatloaf recipe delivers satisfying results every time.

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🧾 Ingredients and Their Purpose

Understanding the why behind each ingredient helps you appreciate the balance of flavors and texture that make this meatloaf so special.

For the Meatloaf:

Ground Beef (2 lbs, 80/20 blend) – Provides rich flavor and just enough fat for moisture without being greasy. An 80/20 blend ensures the loaf stays juicy.

Breadcrumbs (1 cup) – Acts as a binder to hold the loaf together while keeping it tender.

Onion, finely chopped (1 medium) – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.

Garlic, minced (2 cloves) – Enhances the savory notes and adds complexity.

Milk (½ cup) – Moistens the breadcrumbs, helping achieve a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Eggs (2 large) – Binds everything together and helps the loaf hold its shape.

Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon) – Introduces umami depth that boosts the overall savoriness.

Salt (1½ teaspoons) – Enhances all the other flavors in the dish.

Black Pepper (½ teaspoon) – Adds a touch of heat and spice.

Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon) – A classic herb that brings earthy warmth.

Dried Oregano (½ teaspoon) – Offers a subtle Mediterranean flair and aromatic layer.

Paprika (½ teaspoon) – Adds color and a mild smoky sweetness.

For the Glaze:

Ketchup (½ cup) – The classic base that brings sweetness and acidity.

Brown Sugar (2 tablespoons) – Adds molasses-rich sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.

Dijon Mustard (1 tablespoon) – Brings tang and a gentle kick.

Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tablespoon) – Cuts through the richness for a balanced finish.

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👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

Ground beef

Breadcrumbs

Finely chopped onion

Minced garlic

Milk

Eggs

Worcestershire sauce

Salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and paprika

Gently mix with clean hands or a fork. Do not overmix, as this can make the loaf dense. Mix until just combined.

Step 3: Shape and Place

Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared pan, pressing lightly to shape into an even loaf. Alternatively, form a free-form loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet for a crispier exterior.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together:

Ketchup

Brown sugar

Dijon mustard

Apple cider vinegar

This glaze delivers that signature Southern sweet-and-tangy finish.

Step 5: Glaze and Bake

Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Bake uncovered for 60 minutes.

Step 6: Finish with More Glaze

Remove from the oven and spread the remaining glaze on top. Return to oven and bake for 15–20 more minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a moist, sliceable loaf.

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❤️ Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite

Classic flavors with a modern balance of seasoning

Moist and tender texture that holds its shape

A perfectly balanced glaze—not too sweet, not too tangy

Simple ingredients you likely already have on hand

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🔪 Pro Tips for Meatloaf Perfection

Use your hands to mix the ingredients — it's gentler than a spoon and prevents overmixing.

Let the onions “sweat” in a pan before adding if you prefer a milder onion flavor.

Want extra moisture? Add 2 tablespoons of grated carrot to the mix.

For an added layer of flavor, try smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce in the glaze.

Use a meat thermometer for accuracy — don’t guess!

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Pair this Southern-style meatloaf with classic comfort sides for a complete meal:

Creamy mashed potatoes with gravy

Buttered green beans or glazed carrots

Southern-style cornbread or dinner rolls

A crisp garden salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness

Leftovers make fantastic meatloaf sandwiches the next day!

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📌 Final Thoughts

Southern Nana’s Meatloaf is the definition of classic comfort food done right. With a perfect balance of savory meat, warm spices, and a signature glaze, this recipe is simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for Sunday dinners. It’s a dish that reminds us why the humble meatloaf remains a timeless favorite — satisfying, flavorful, and irresistibly nostalgic.

Try it once, and it’ll become your go-

to meatloaf recipe for life.

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Ready to taste true Southern comfort? Bookmark this page, pin it, or print the recipe — and bring Nana’s kitchen into your home today.