This Elegant Meat Loaf elevates a humble classic with premium ingredients, delicate seasoning, and a glossy glaze that looks as beautiful as it tastes. Tender slices, rich flavor, and a polished presentation make this meat loaf suitable for entertaining while still being easy enough for a weeknight.
Why This Meat Loaf Feels Elegant
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Blend of meats for depth and tenderness
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Sautéed aromatics for refined flavor
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Subtle herbs instead of heavy seasoning
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Glossy, wine-kissed glaze
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Clean slices and beautiful presentation
Ingredients
Meat Loaf
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1 lb ground beef (80/20)
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½ lb ground pork or veal
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¾ cup whole milk
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs
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2 large eggs
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1 small shallot, finely minced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup mushrooms, very finely chopped
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1 tbsp olive oil
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tbsp Dijon mustard
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1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
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1 tsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
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¾ tsp salt
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½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Elegant Glaze
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½ cup ketchup
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2 tbsp brown sugar
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2 tbsp balsamic vinegar or red wine
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan or baking sheet with parchment.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté mushrooms and shallot until soft and lightly golden, about 6–8 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Let cool slightly.
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In a large bowl, combine milk and panko; let soak 1 minute.
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Add eggs, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon, herbs, salt, pepper, and sautéed mushroom mixture. Mix gently.
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Add ground meats and mix just until combined—do not overwork.
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Shape into a neat loaf or place into prepared pan.
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Stir glaze ingredients and brush half over the top.
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Bake 45 minutes, remove from oven, brush with remaining glaze.
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Return to oven and bake 15–20 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
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Rest 10 minutes, then slice and serve.
Presentation Tips
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Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley
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Serve sliced on a white platter
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Spoon warm glaze over slices before serving
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Pair with elegant sides for a complete meal
What to Serve with Elegant Meat Loaf
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Garlic mashed potatoes or pommes purée
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Roasted asparagus or haricots verts
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Creamed spinach
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Mushroom gravy or red wine reduction
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Simple arugula salad
Make-Ahead & Storage
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Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance
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Refrigerate: Up to 4 days
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Freeze: Up to 3 months (unbaked or baked)
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Reheat: Covered in oven at 325°F
Final Thoughts
This Elegant Meat Loaf Recipe proves that comfort food can be sophisticated. With refined flavors, a tender crumb, and beautiful presentation, it’s perfect for special occasions—or anytime you want to impress without stress.
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup tomato ketchup, divided use
- 2 slices rye bread, torn into small pieces
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup cider or white distilled vinegar
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

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