Recipe Card - Meatloaf Sauce Recipe

Recipe Card - Meatloaf Sauce Recipe

Max

Make the perfect homemade meatloaf with a tender, juicy interior and a sweet, tangy glaze. This easy 5-ingredient meatloaf sauce is the ideal finishing touch!

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Course sauce

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 55 kcal

Ingredients

Ketchup 1/2 cup: This is the base of your sauce, providing that classic tangy sweetness. You can substitute it with tomato sauce if you prefer a less sugary option.
Brown Sugar 2 tablespoons: Adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness that balances the acidity of the ketchup. For a lighter version, you could use honey or skip it altogether for a meatloaf sauce recipe without brown sugar.
Worcestershire Sauce 1 tablespoon: This brings a savory, umami kick that elevates the sauce. Soy sauce can work as a substitute if needed.
White Vinegar 1 teaspoon: A splash of vinegar enhances the tanginess and helps cut through the richness. Apple cider vinegar is a great alternative for a milder flavor.
Garlic Powder 1/2 teaspoon: Adds a subtle depth of flavor. If you’re a garlic lover, fresh minced garlic can be used instead for a bolder taste.

Instructions

Combine the base ingredients: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of ketchup and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. This creates the foundation of your sauce, giving it a sweet and tangy profile. Make sure the brown sugar dissolves completely for a smooth consistency.
Add Worcestershire and vinegar: Stir in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce and 1 teaspoon of white vinegar. These ingredients bring a savory depth and a bit of brightness to balance the sweetness. If you want a bolder flavor, feel free to add a little extra Worcestershire.
Incorporate the garlic powder: Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of garlic powder and mix well. This step adds a subtle yet essential layer of flavor. If using fresh minced garlic, cook the sauce on low heat for 2-3 minutes to mellow out the sharpness.
Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it on low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. For a thinner glaze, add a splash of water and mix until you reach your desired consistency.
Glaze the meatloaf: Once your meatloaf is fully cooked, spoon the sauce over the top and spread it evenly. Return the meatloaf to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to allow the sauce to caramelize and enhance its flavors.
Serve and enjoy: Slice your meatloaf and serve it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. The sauce not only adds flavor but also keeps the meatloaf moist and tender.

Notes

First, always taste your sauce before you put it on your meatloaf. This lets you change how sweet or sour it is to your liking.
If you like a smokier taste, you can make a tasty meatloaf topping by switching out some of the ketchup for BBQ sauce.
To achieve a smoother sauce, thoroughly mix all the ingredients by whisking them thoroughly. If you’re in a hurry, don’t boil the sauce.
As the sauce bakes on the meatloaf, it will naturally thicken. To increase the quantity, simply double each ingredient’s amount.
Store the extra sauce in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. This feature makes the sauce ideal for use in various other recipes.
You can keep extra sauce in the fridge for 5–7 days. For up to three months, you can store it for longer by freezing it in small amounts in a container that keeps air out or a freezer-safe bag. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge, and then heat it up on low for a quick sauce.

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