Homemade Meatloaf Sauce
Homemade meatloaf sauce is a tangy, sweet, and savory topping that elevates classic meatloaf to comfort food perfection. Made with pantry staples like ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard, this sauce caramelizes beautifully in the oven and locks in moisture. It’s quick to whip up and can be customized to suit your taste—perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients List
– ½ cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ¼ teaspoon onion powder
– ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: In a small mixing bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Whisk together until the sauce is smooth and well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
Step 3: Spread half the sauce over the meatloaf before baking. Reserve the remaining half to brush on during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Step 4: Optionally, simmer the leftover sauce in a small saucepan for a few minutes to serve warm on the side.
Cook Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings
Makes about ¾ cup (enough for 1 standard meatloaf)
Nutritional Information (approx. per tablespoon)
Calories: 25
Carbs: 6g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Storage Instructions
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and stir before using.
Pairings/Suggestions
Great on classic meatloaf, turkey meatloaf, or meatloaf muffins.
Also works as a dipping sauce for meatballs or fries.
Seasonal Relevance
Perfect year-round, especially during cozy fall and winter meals. Ideal for holidays, Sunday dinners, and comfort food cravings.
Conclusion
This homemade meatloaf sauce is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. With a perfect balance of sweetness and tang, it takes any meatloaf to the next level. Make a batch in minutes and turn a simple dinner into a satisfying family favorite.
Homemade Meatloaf Sauce
1
servings5
minutes25
kcalThis classic meatloaf sauce combines ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and spices to create a rich, flavorful glaze. Use it before baking and brush on more during the last 15 minutes for extra taste.
Ingredients
– ½ cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ¼ teaspoon onion powder
– ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a small mixing bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk together until the sauce is smooth and well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
- Spread half the sauce over the meatloaf before baking. Reserve the remaining half to brush on during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Optionally, simmer the leftover sauce in a small saucepan for a few minutes to serve warm on the side.
Recipe Video
Notes
- This meatloaf sauce is sweet, tangy, and easy to make at home.
It combines ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and simple spices.
Use it before and during baking, or serve extra on the side.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make it spicier?
Yes. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Q2: Can I substitute ketchup?
You can use tomato sauce or barbecue sauce, though flavor and sweetness will vary.
Q3: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just scale up the ingredients evenly for larger batches.
