Moist, Juicy & Packed with Southern Flavor

This Southern Meatloaf is everything comfort food should be—tender, juicy, flavorful, and topped with a sweet-and-tangy brown sugar glaze. Fresh onions, bell peppers, garlic, and a blend of seasonings create a rich homemade flavor that makes this recipe perfect for Sunday dinner, family gatherings, or a cozy weeknight meal.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Rest Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Cuisine: Southern American

Ingredients

Meatloaf

• 2 lbs ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3/4 cup bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup Panko bread crumbs
• 1/3 cup milk
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 3 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 Tbsp ketchup
• 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 3 Tbsp all-purpose seasoning (your favorite blend)
• 1½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Sweet & Tangy Glaze

• 3/4 cup ketchup
• 3 Tbsp brown sugar
• 2 Tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 Tbsp hot sauce

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

1. Preheat oven to 370°F (188°C).
2. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, bell pepper, garlic, and sugar.
3. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until softened.
4. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large bowl combine:

• Ground beef
• Panko bread crumbs
• Milk
• Eggs
• Ketchup
• Worcestershire sauce
• Parsley
• Salt
• Black pepper
• All-purpose seasoning
• Italian seasoning
• Paprika

Add the cooled vegetable mixture.

Using clean hands or a spoon, gently mix until just combined.

Pro Tip: Avoid overmixing to keep your meatloaf tender and juicy.

Step 4: Shape and Bake

1. Transfer mixture into prepared loaf pan.
2. Shape evenly and smooth the top.
3. Bake for 50–60 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

While the meatloaf bakes, combine:

• Ketchup
• Brown sugar
• Yellow mustard
• Hot sauce

Whisk until smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 6: Glaze the Meatloaf

1. Remove the meatloaf from the oven.
2. Spread the glaze evenly over the top.
3. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes.

The glaze should become glossy and slightly caramelized.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the meatloaf from the oven.
2. Allow it to rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing.

The meatloaf is done when:

• The internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C)
• The glaze is set and slightly sticky
• The center is fully cooked

Chef's Tips

✔ Use 80/20 ground beef for maximum flavor and juiciness.
✔ Sauté the vegetables before mixing to enhance sweetness and texture.
✔ Allow vegetables to cool completely before adding to the meat mixture.
✔ Mix gently to keep the meatloaf tender.
✔ Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to help retain its juices.
✔ For extra flavor, reserve a small amount of glaze to serve at the table.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, southern green beans, collard greens, buttered corn, roasted vegetables, dinner rolls, or homemade biscuits. 🍽️✨