- Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk everything together until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the glaze is smooth. The balance of sweetness from the brown sugar and tanginess from the mustard and vinegar is what makes this glaze stand out.
- Glaze the Meatloaf: Once your meatloaf is almost fully cooked (usually with about 15-20 minutes left in the cooking time), remove it from the oven. Using a spoon or silicone brush, spread a generous layer of the glaze over the top and sides of the meatloaf. If you want an extra-thick glaze, you can apply half of the sauce earlier in the cooking process, then add the final layer closer to the end.
- Caramelize the Glaze: Return the meatloaf to the oven and let the glaze cook for the remaining 15-20 minutes. For an even deeper caramelization, you can broil the meatloaf for 2-3 minutes at the very end—just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Serve with Extra Glaze (Optional): If you’re a fan of extra sauce, reserve some of the glaze before applying it to the meatloaf. Warm it up and drizzle it over each slice when serving for a glossy finish and even more flavor.
Tips for Perfect Meatloaf Glaze:
- Adjust the Sweetness: For those who prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the brown sugar to 1 tablespoon or replace it with honey for a different flavor profile.
- Get Creative: Add a splash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat, or try swapping out Dijon mustard for whole grain or spicy brown mustard for a different texture and taste.
- Make Ahead: This glaze can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week, making it easy to whip up a delicious meatloaf at a moment’s notice.
This glaze is the perfect finishing touch for your meatloaf, striking a balance between sweet, tangy, and savory. It not only adds flavor but also gives your meatloaf a beautiful, glossy finish that’s sure to impress at the dinner table.