This Sweet & Spicy Meatloaf is not your average weeknight dinner—it’s juicy, packed with bold flavors, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Inspired by a hand-me-down recipe and spiced up with my own tweaks, it turns simple ground beef into a comforting yet exciting dish.

Why This Recipe Works

• Flavor-packed: A mix of sweet sauces and zesty spices gives every bite depth.
• No dryness: Extra moisture from sauces and fresh ingredients keeps the loaf juicy.
• Family-tested: Passed down, tweaked, and loved at every gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

(Full recipe quantities below!)

• Ground Beef: The star ingredient—80/20 blend keeps it tender and juicy.
• Breadcrumbs: Help bind the mixture and soak up flavor.
• Eggs: Essential for structure and texture.
• Sauces: Ketchup, Worcestershire, and a touch of hot sauce for that sweet-spicy balance.
• Aromatics: Onion, garlic, and peppers to build bold layers of flavor.
• Glaze: A sticky topping made with ketchup, brown sugar, and chili flakes for extra kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Meat Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, peppers, and seasonings.
2. Mix gently with clean hands or a spatula until just combined—don’t overwork the meat.

2. Shape & Bake

1. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or loaf pan.
2. Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.

3. Add the Glaze

1. While baking, whisk ketchup, brown sugar, and chili flakes together.
2. Spread glaze evenly on top of the loaf and bake another 15–20 minutes until caramelized and glossy.

4. Rest & Serve

1. Remove from oven and let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted veggies for a classic pairing.

Pro Tips

• Mix lightly: Overmixing makes the meat dense. Gentle folding is key.
• Use a thermometer: Meatloaf is done at 160°F internal temperature.
• Double the glaze: For those who love extra saucy bites, make a larger batch.

FAQ

Can I make it ahead? Yes—assemble the loaf, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

What meat works best? A beef-pork blend adds richness, but all-beef works beautifully.

Can it be frozen? Absolutely—wrap tightly after baking and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven.

Sweet & Spicy Meatloaf Recipe

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 1 hr | Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins | Servings: 6–8

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup ketchup (plus more for glaze)
• 1 tbsp hot sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp chili flakes
• 1 tsp salt & ½ tsp pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a pan with parchment.
2. Mix beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, pepper, garlic, sauces, and seasonings until combined.
3. Shape into a loaf and bake for 45 mins.
4. Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and chili flakes. Spread glaze on loaf. Bake another 15–20 mins.
5. Rest 10 mins before slicing. Serve warm.