Branding Day Meat Loaf is a hearty, flavorful dish that became a family favorite during the mid-20th century. Using simple pantry staples like ketchup, dry mustard, and brown sugar, this recipe achieves a perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors. The use of dry onion soup mix gives the meat loaf a rich, aromatic depth, while the sweet and tangy glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners, this recipe embodies the spirit of comforting American home cooking.
Ingredients
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 cup fine dry bread crumbs (or cracker crumbs)
- 1 env onion soup mix
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- ¼ cup ketchup (for glaze)
- ¼ cup brown sugar (packed )
- 1 tsp dry mustard
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Meat Mixture
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs.
- Stir in ½ cup ketchup, bread crumbs, and onion soup mix.
- Add the ground beef and mix until well combined.
Step 2: Shape the Meat Loaf
- Pat the mixture tightly into a 8x8x2-inch loaf pan.
- Leave a small well around the edges to allow for drippings.
Step 3: Bake the Meat Loaf
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
- Remove from oven and drain excess drippings.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
- In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup ketchup, brown sugar, and dry mustard.
- Spoon glaze evenly over the meat loaf.
Step 5: Final Bake & Rest
- Return meat loaf to oven and bake 15–20 minutes longer, uncovered.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before slicing.
Tips
- Use extra-lean beef to reduce fat content
- Substitute half ground pork or turkey for a lighter or mixed flavor
- Add chopped onion or bell pepper to the meat mixture for extra texture
- Mix in Worcestershire sauce for deeper savory flavor
- Use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup for a smokier glaze
- Line pan with foil for easy cleanup
- Shape into a free-form loaf on a sheet pan for more browned edges
- Turn leftovers into meatloaf sandwiches
- Freeze cooked slices individually for quick reheatable meals
- Top with extra ketchup during serving for classic diner-style presentation
Nutrition
Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 17gProtein: 26gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.8gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 780mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 1gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 220IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 35mgIron: 3mg