This Boston Market Meatloaf is a warm, comforting dish made with ground beef and a mix of herbs and spices, giving it a hearty flavor everyone loves. Topped with a tasty glaze, it’s a true crowd-pleaser!
Whenever I make it, the smell fills the house and quickly brings everyone to the table. Pair it with some mashed potatoes, and you’re all set for a cozy dinner! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 85% lean for a nice balance of flavor and juiciness, but feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just be aware that they might be drier.
Breadcrumbs: Plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs both work well. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, try crushed gluten-free crackers or oats instead.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh is best for flavor, but you can use onion powder and garlic powder in a pinch. Use about 1 tbsp of each if you go this route.
Ketchup: The ketchup adds sweetness and moisture. If you’re avoiding sugar, try using a low-sugar ketchup or homemade tomato sauce with a touch of honey.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme and parsley can brighten the flavor, but dried herbs will work too. Just use less—about half the amount—since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Prevent My Meatloaf from Being Dry?
Keeping your meatloaf moist is key! Here are some tips:
- Use a mix of ground meat for moisture, like beef and turkey.
- Don’t overmix! Gently combine your ingredients to avoid tough meatloaf.
- Add moisture—milk, eggs, and even a bit of ketchup keep it juicy.
- Let it rest post-baking for 10 minutes. This helps retain juices.
Follow these tips, and your meatloaf should turn out tender and flavorful every time!
How to Make Boston Market Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (preferably 85% lean)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For the Glaze:
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Time Estimate:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 50-60 minutes of baking. Don’t forget to let your meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing! Overall, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes for everything!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a great temperature for cooking the meatloaf evenly. Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and chopped parsley. Use your hands or a spoon to mix gently until everything is just combined. Try not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Shape and Place in the Pan:
Next, shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape that fits your pan, or simply press it evenly into the prepared loaf pan. Make sure it’s packed in but not too tight.
4. Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. This glaze will add a delicious sweet tang to your meatloaf!
5. Add the Glaze:
Spread about half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will help create a nice caramelized crust while baking.
6. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. About 15 minutes before it’s done, take it out and spread the remaining glaze on top. This will make sure you get that sticky, glossy finish you want!
7. Check for Doneness:
Continue baking until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This means it’s safe to eat and perfectly cooked!
8. Rest Before Slicing:
Once it’s done, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to settle, making it easier to slice.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the meatloaf, garnish with extra chopped parsley if you like, and serve with mashed potatoes or your favorite sides for a comforting meal!
Enjoy your delicious Boston Market-style meatloaf with its perfect balance of savory flavors and sweet glaze!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of meats. Just remember that leaner meats may yield a drier result, so you might want to add a little more moisture, like an extra egg or a bit more milk.
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or even cornmeal as a substitute. Just make sure they are finely ground to maintain the intended texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just shape it and add the glaze right before baking it the next day for the freshest results!
