Honey Mustard Meatloaf

Honey Mustard Meatloaf is a savory, slightly sweet, and tangy twist on the classic meatloaf. Juicy ground beef, breadcrumbs, and aromatics come together in a perfectly seasoned mixture, baked to perfection and topped with a luscious honey mustard glaze that caramelizes in the oven.

This dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a family gathering. The combination of sweet honey, tangy mustard, and tender, juicy meat makes every bite irresistible. It’s simple to prepare, yet feels special enough to serve for Sunday dinner or casual entertaining.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Honey Mustard Meatloaf because it elevates a classic comfort food with a perfectly balanced glaze. The meat stays juicy, while the honey mustard topping adds a sweet-tangy flavor that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

It’s a dish that appeals to the whole family. Kids love the subtle sweetness, and adults enjoy the tangy mustard kick. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time and leftovers reheat beautifully, making it a practical yet indulgent meal.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Flavorful: Sweet, tangy, and savory in every bite.
• Simple to make: Minimal ingredients and easy steps.
• Family-friendly: Loved by adults and kids alike.
• Comfort food classic: Perfect for cozy dinners.
• Versatile: Glaze can be adjusted to your preferred sweetness or tanginess.

Once you try it, Honey Mustard Meatloaf becomes a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.

Recipe Overview

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 55–60 minutes
• Total Time: 70–75 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Calories: ~370 kcal per serving

Ingredients

Meatloaf

• 1 ½ pounds (680 g) ground beef (or mix of beef and pork)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup milk
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Honey Mustard Glaze

• ½ cup Dijon mustard
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional, for color and tang)
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for extra tang)

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat Oven

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Mix gently until just combined—do not overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

1. Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan.
2. Shape into a loaf and smooth the top.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar.
2. Brush half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
2. Remove from oven and brush with remaining glaze.
3. Continue baking for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking.
2. Slice and serve with your favorite sides.

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How to Serve

• Serve with classic sides such as:
  • Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
  • Steamed or roasted vegetables
  • Green beans, corn, or carrots
• Optional garnishes: fresh parsley, additional honey mustard sauce, or a dollop of sour cream

Recipe Tips

• Do not overmix: Keeps the meatloaf tender and juicy.
• Breadcrumbs: Use fresh or store-bought breadcrumbs; soaked slightly in milk for extra moisture.
• Glaze: Adjust honey for sweetness or mustard for tanginess.
• Rest before slicing: Ensures juices redistribute and meatloaf holds together.
• Mixed meats: Combining beef and pork increases flavor and juiciness.

Variations

• Garlic Herb Honey Mustard Meatloaf: Add fresh thyme, parsley, or rosemary to the meat mixture.
• Spicy Honey Mustard Meatloaf: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the glaze.
• Cheesy Honey Mustard Meatloaf: Layer shredded cheese inside the meatloaf for a melty surprise.
• Veggie Meatloaf: Add finely grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to the mixture for extra nutrition.
• Turkey Honey Mustard Meatloaf: Use ground turkey for a lighter version; add extra moisture (milk or yogurt).

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store cooked meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing:
  • Wrap cooked meatloaf tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Leftover reheating: Slice and reheat in the microwave or oven for best results.

Special Equipment Needed

• Loaf pan (8×4 or 9×5 inches) or baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or spoon
• Small bowl for glaze
• Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)

Conclusion

Honey Mustard Meatloaf is a comforting, flavorful, and family-friendly meal that adds a sweet and tangy twist to a classic dish. Juicy, tender meat combined with a caramelized honey mustard glaze makes every bite irresistible.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family gatherings, this meatloaf is easy to make, customizable, and satisfying. It’s a must-try recipe for anyone looking to elevate classic comfort food with a little sweetness and tang.

Honey Mustard Meatloaf

Honey Mustard Meatloaf is a savory, slightly sweet, and tangy twist on the classic meatloaf. Juicy ground beef, breadcrumbs, and aromatics come together in a perfectly seasoned mixture, baked to perfection and topped with a luscious honey mustard glaze that caramelizes in the oven.

Author: Stella Parker Cuisine: American Course: Meat

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Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 60 mins Total Time 1 hr 15 mins Difficulty: Beginner Servings: 8

Ingredients

Servings

Meatloaf

• 1 ½ pounds (680 g)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup milk
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Honey Mustard Glaze

• ½ cup Dijon mustard
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional, for color and tang)
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for extra tang)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat Oven : Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture : In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently until just combined—do not overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.
3. Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf ';Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Shape into a loaf and smooth the top.
4. Step 4: Prepare the Glaze : In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar. Brush half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Step 5: Bake : Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and brush with remaining glaze. Continue baking for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Step 6: Rest and Serve : Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking. Slice and serve with your favorite sides.

Keywords: Honey Mustard Meatloaf