This super simple sweet and tangy meatloaf sauce comes together in minutes with just 3 ingredients! It’s the ultimate topping and the perfect finish to all your favorite meatloaf recipes!
For some people, meatloaf isn’t complete without smothering it in meatloaf sauce and I tend to agree! It’s a sweet and tangy way to top off any deliciously seasoned, juicy meatloaf recipe, especially when using leaner meat like in this scrumptious turkey meatloaf, which doesn’t have as much of its own juices.
This quick and easy glaze is made with just 3 ingredients including BBQ sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar, and the option of adding a bit more tang, or spice to it.
It comes together in minutes and makes an amazing meatloaf topping sauce that’ll make you want to lick the spoon! We just love it on this stuffed meatloaf, it’s so good!
Addition: Some ways to mix up the sauce is to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some spice or a teaspoon of mustard for a boost of flavor.
Some popular substitutions include:Barbecue sauce.Roasted tomato and dried chili sauce.Sun-Dried tomato sauce.Mustard and Barbecue sauce.Coca-Cola and Barbecue sauce.Honey Barbecue sauce.Homemade Tomato Sauce.Tomato Gravy.
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Barbecue sauce.
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Roasted tomato and dried chili sauce.
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Sun-Dried tomato sauce.
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Mustard and Barbecue sauce.
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Coca-Cola and Barbecue sauce.
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Honey Barbecue sauce.
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Homemade Tomato Sauce.
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Tomato Gravy.
How to Make Meatloaf Sauce
Combine all the ingredients listed and do a little taste test. Add salt and pepper, if desired, or think about whether you need a bit more tang or a bit of heat. Once you’ve got the perfect combination of ingredients, it’s ready to go!
Pour the meatloaf glaze over your meatloaf, and spread it evenly. Save a little extra for serving.
Make more of this sauce than you need and keep a jar of it in the fridge and use it as a glaze for this easy BBQ chicken recipe for dinner or as a dip for these appetizer baked chicken meatballs.
Tips to Jazz it Up!
A good old fashioned red sauce for meatloaf is sometimes perfect just the way it is. On some days, it’s nice to switch things up!
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for heat.
- Some Dijon mustard would be nice for a tangy, sharp flavor. Or use vinegar!
- Homemade BBQ sauce is my favorite way to make this glaze even better, but use your favorite store bought if you have some on hand.
- Garlic powder and onion powder are great flavor enhancers.
Keep any extra sauce you have made sealed in an airtight jar or container and store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Take it out when you need it and use it as a condiment, a sauce, a dip, or a glaze!
This glaze is made of both ketchup and BBQ sauce with a touch of brown sugar. I find it is the best combination!
This glaze would be my answer! If you are trying to substitute the ketchup in this sauce, try tomato paste instead of ketchup.
I prefer to add the sauce before I bake my meatloaf. This provides the best flavor and keeps your meatloaf moist. You can always add some extra glaze during the final minutes of cooking for more flavor if you wish.
There are so many great side dishes to serve with meatloaf that has been glazed with this sauce! Depending on the season, choose from a variety of roasted vegetables, potatoes, rice or noodles.
What can I put on top of meatloaf instead of ketchup?
FAQ
Do you need ketchup for meatloaf?
What is the sauce on meatloaf made of?
What can I add to meatloaf so it’s not dry?
What can I substitute for ketchup in a meatloaf?
Some commenters recommend substituting ketchup with a barbecue sauce or glaze, while others suggest a more unique combination of cranberry sauce and brown sugar. One thing’s for sure: You definitely want to make a meatloaf that retains moisture and doesn’t come out dry and crumbly.
Can I use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup for meatloaf?
Barbecue Sauce – For a super zesty meatloaf topping, use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup Reserve – Make a little extra sauce and keep it on the side to use after the meatloaf has been baked. Note: To avoid contamination, place the extra sauce in a separate bowl before using a spoon or other tool to dip into it to apply to the meatloaf.
What sauce goes with meatloaf?
If you want something simple, try the classic or traditional meatloaf with ketchup and brown sugar. But if you want to try a unique sauce on your meatloaf, the #10 Chipotle Sauce will pair exceptionally well with tender and savory meatloaf. 1. Traditional Meatloaf Glaze
How to make BBQ sauce for meatloaf?
Molasses, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, paprika and chili powder, salt, and mustard can be mixed together to make BBQ sauce. You have to add tomato sauce to get the reddish hue which is what BBQ sauce is famous for. Although distinct from ketchup, mayonnaise can be used as a glaze on the meatloaf.