Here’s a rich, tender, and slightly sweet version of a classic comfort dish: Amish Meatloaf. It’s moist, flavorful, and topped with a brown sugar–ketchup glaze that gives it that nostalgic, old-fashioned flavor. Perfect for a hearty family meal.
🍞 Amish Meatloaf Recipe
🧂 Ingredients:
For the meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 works well)
- 1 cup crushed butter crackers (like Ritz) or breadcrumbs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley (optional)
For the sweet glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp yellow mustard (or a dash of vinegar for tang)
🔪 Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with foil/parchment.
2. Make the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crushed crackers, onion, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.
- Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined (don’t overmix — it’ll make the meatloaf tough).
3. Shape & Place
- Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or form a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Make the Glaze
- Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl.
- Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake
- Bake uncovered for 45 minutes.
- Remove, spread the remaining glaze over the top.
- Return to oven and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Rest & Serve
- Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it firm up and stay juicy.
📝 Tips & Variations:
- Make it extra moist: Add 1/4 cup grated carrot or zucchini to the mix.
- Double glaze lovers: Baste it a third time in the last 5 minutes for a stickier finish.
- Add-ins: Mix in a bit of shredded cheddar, or top with cooked bacon for a twist.
- Make-ahead: Prep the meatloaf the night before and bake fresh the next day.