Description
This classic meatloaf recipe adds a sweet and savory twist with the inclusion of unsweetened applesauce, which keeps it moist and tender while adding a subtle natural sweetness. Topped with a tangy ketchup glaze, it’s the perfect nostalgic comfort food with a flavorful upgrade.
Ingredients
1 ½ lbs lean ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if desired)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 large egg
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 cup ketchup (for topping)
1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, applesauce, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan or on a lined baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mix the ketchup and brown sugar (if using), and spread it evenly over the top of the loaf.
- Bake uncovered for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For extra richness, swap some of the ground beef with ground pork.
Add cayenne or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb version.
Try barbecue sauce instead of ketchup for a smoky glaze.
Make mini loaves or muffin-tin portions for faster baking and meal prep.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of loaf)
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
