Cranberry Glazed Meatloaf

Introduction

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food, but this Cranberry Glazed Meatloaf elevates it with a sweet and tangy cranberry topping that pairs perfectly with the savory, juicy meat. The cranberries add a subtle tartness and beautiful color, making the dish feel festive and special. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any night you want a cozy, flavorful meal, this meatloaf is both comforting and impressive.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it balances savory, sweet, and tangy flavors beautifully. The meatloaf itself is tender and well-seasoned, while the cranberry glaze adds a bright pop of flavor that cuts through the richness. It’s hearty enough to satisfy dinner cravings, yet feels a little luxurious thanks to the glaze. Every bite is a perfect mix of juicy meat and fruity sweetness.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because:

• It’s a creative twist on classic meatloaf that stands out on the table.
• The cranberry glaze adds festive color and flavor without being overly sweet.
• Easy to prepare but impressive enough for holidays or special occasions.
• Pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or simple salads.
• Leftovers are delicious for sandwiches the next day!

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: ~380 kcal per serving (approx.)
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Main Course

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or mix of beef and pork)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried thyme

For the Cranberry Glaze:

• ½ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix meatloaf ingredients until combined.
3. Shape into a loaf and place in a greased pan.
4. Mix glaze ingredients and spread over the top.
5. Bake for 50–55 minutes, until meat is cooked through.
6. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, Parmesan, parsley, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared pan.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix cranberry sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Spread evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 50–55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Remove meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Slice and serve.

How to Serve

• Serve warm with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.
• Drizzle additional cranberry glaze over slices for extra flavor.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a festive touch.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use fresh cranberries to make your own sauce for a tangier, fresher flavor.
• Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing keeps it juicy and prevents crumbling.
• Don’t overmix the meat to ensure tenderness.
• For a deeper flavor, sauté the onion and garlic before adding them to the meat mixture.

Variations

• Turkey or Chicken Meatloaf: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Spicy Cranberry Glaze: Add ¼ tsp cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze.
• Cheesy Meatloaf: Add a layer of mozzarella or cheddar in the middle of the meatloaf.
• Nutty Cranberry Glaze: Stir in 2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts for texture.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil or place in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Microwave works for individual slices.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Loaf pan or baking dish
• Meat thermometer (recommended)
• Knife for slicing

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the meatloaf and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q2: Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned sauce?
Yes. Cook ½ cup fresh cranberries with ¼ cup sugar and 2 tbsp water until softened, then use as glaze.

Q3: How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?
Don’t overmix and let the loaf rest after baking. The milk and eggs in the mixture also help keep it moist.

Q4: Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
Yes, finely grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers can be added to the mixture for extra flavor and moisture.

Conclusion

This Cranberry Glazed Meatloaf is a perfect combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors that elevate a classic comfort dish. Easy to prepare, visually stunning, and packed with flavor, it’s ideal for family dinners, holiday meals, or special occasions. It’s a cozy, hearty dish that will become a favorite on your dinner table and leave everyone asking for seconds.