Dijon Mustard Meatloaf

Introduction

Dijon Mustard Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on the classic comfort food, combining savory ground meat with the tangy, slightly spicy taste of Dijon mustard. This meatloaf is moist, tender, and infused with a rich blend of herbs and seasonings that complement the mustard glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, it’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough to serve to guests. The combination of mustard, garlic, and fresh herbs gives this meatloaf a gourmet touch while keeping it hearty and satisfying.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Dijon Mustard Meatloaf because it adds a tangy, savory depth to traditional meatloaf. The Dijon mustard in both the meat mixture and glaze enhances the flavors without being overpowering. Each slice is juicy and flavorful, and the glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a rich, golden crust. It’s comfort food with a gourmet twist, easy to prepare, and always a hit with family and friends.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it elevates a classic favorite with bold yet balanced flavors. The tangy Dijon mustard pairs perfectly with the savory meat, creating a unique taste profile. It’s easy to make, versatile, and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. For anyone who enjoys classic comfort food with a flavorful twist, this meatloaf is a must.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 55–60 minutes
• Total Time: 70–75 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories (per serving): ~330–360 kcal

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: American with a gourmet twist
• Course: Main Course, Dinner, Lunch

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or mix of beef and pork)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (plus 1 tablespoon for glaze)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons ketchup (for glaze)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients except glaze.
3. Mix until well combined and shape into a loaf.
4. Place in a greased baking dish.
5. Mix Dijon mustard and ketchup for glaze and spread over the top.
6. Bake 55–60 minutes until cooked through.
7. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
8. Serve warm.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat Oven

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or baking dish lightly with olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare Meat Mixture

• In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, egg, Dijon mustard, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
• Mix gently until evenly combined, being careful not to overmix to retain tenderness.

Step 3: Shape the Loaf

• Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Prepare and Apply the Glaze

• In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard and 2 tablespoons ketchup.
• Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Step 5: Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 55–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
• Optional: Drizzle with olive oil for extra flavor and browning.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

• Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes to lock in juices.
• Slice and serve warm with desired sides.

How to Serve

Serve Dijon Mustard Meatloaf with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or a fresh salad. Drizzle any extra glaze over slices for added flavor. It pairs well with crusty bread and a glass of red or white wine for a complete meal.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Do not overmix the meat to prevent a dense loaf.
• Let the meatloaf rest after baking for juicier slices.
• Adjust Dijon mustard amount to your taste preference.
• Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for enhanced aroma.
• Use a mix of beef and pork for a richer flavor.

Variations

• Cheesy Dijon Meatloaf: Add shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese inside the loaf.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
• Vegetable Version: Mix in finely grated carrots or zucchini for extra moisture.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• BBQ Dijon Meatloaf: Replace glaze with a mixture of Dijon mustard and BBQ sauce.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Loaf pan or baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Small bowl for glaze

FAQ

Q1: Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Yes, but add a bit of olive oil or milk to maintain moisture.

Q2: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the loaf and refrigerate for a few hours before baking.

Q3: Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

Q4: How can I make it more flavorful?
Add extra fresh herbs or a small amount of smoked paprika for a smoky note.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double all ingredients and bake in a larger loaf pan or two pans, adjusting cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

Dijon Mustard Meatloaf is a tangy, savory, and flavorful upgrade to traditional meatloaf. Moist, tender, and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or special occasions. The Dijon mustard glaze adds a gourmet touch that pairs perfectly with the seasoned meat. This versatile and delicious meatloaf is sure to become a household favorite and a go-to recipe for anyone who loves bold, comforting flavors.