Glazed Homestyle Meatloaf with Herbal Enhancements Recipe

This savory meatloaf is a tribute to comfort food at its finest—packed with hearty ground beef, aromatic herbs, and veggies, then glazed with a tangy, lightly sweet tomato topping. Baked to juicy perfection, it’s ideal for sharing, storing, and pairing with sides like mashed sweet potatoes or steamed greens.

Best of all? The base recipe offers opportunities to incorporate therapeutic herbs or adapt for metabolic wellness, inflammation support, or nutrient boosts. Whether you’re cooking for family or prepping for the week, this meatloaf can be customized with your botanical flair.

🧺 Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1½ pounds ground beef (opt for grass-fed for better omega balance)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (whole grain or almond flour for a wellness option)
• ½ cup finely chopped onion
• ½ cup finely chopped bell pepper (red or green)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tbsp dried)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup milk (plant-based options work well)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (or tamari + a dash of vinegar)
• 1 tsp sea salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried oregano

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup (or tomato paste + honey)
• 2 tbsp brown sugar (or jaggery/maple syrup)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Optional Enhancements:

• 🌿 1 tsp powdered fenugreek or nettle leaf (supports blood sugar & prostate health)
• 🌶️ 1 pinch cayenne for improved circulation
• 🍋 Zest of ½ lemon for digestive support
• 🍃 ½ tsp ground cumin for anti-inflammatory properties

🔪 Instructions (Comprehensive & Step-by-Step):

1. Preheat & Prep Pan

• Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a standard loaf pan or baking dish. You can line it with parchment for easier cleanup.

2. Mix the Base

• In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, parsley, garlic, milk, and eggs.
• Mix in Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano.
• For wellness enhancements: Add herbal powders, lemon zest, or spice variations here. Blend gently, just until combined.

3. Shape the Loaf

• Transfer the meat mixture into your prepared pan, shaping into a loaf form.
• Press gently to firm the top and sides. You can use wet hands to smooth the surface.

4. Make the Glaze

• In a separate bowl, stir together ketchup, sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire.
• Taste and adjust sweetness or tang if desired.
• Spread half of the glaze evenly over the meatloaf.

5. First Bake

• Bake the meatloaf for about 45 minutes.
• The glaze will begin to caramelize, locking in flavor.

6. Midpoint Glaze Refresh

• Remove the loaf from the oven.
• Pour or brush on the remaining glaze for a bold second layer.
• Return to oven for 15 more minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

7. Rest & Slice

• Once cooked, take the meatloaf out and let it rest for 10–15 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute and texture to set.
• Slice into hearty portions, about 1-inch thick.

8. Garnish & Serve

• Optional: sprinkle with fresh parsley or drizzle with a herbed yogurt sauce.
• Serve alongside steamed broccoli, roasted root vegetables, or a creamy mash of your choice.

🍃 Wellness Variations & Tips: