Soy Sauce Meatloaf

Soy Sauce Meatloaf offers a delightful twist on a traditional American dish, infusing it with the rich, umami flavors of soy sauce and a unique blend of ingredients.

This recipe incorporates the moistening qualities of eggs and the crisp texture of panko breadcrumbs, enhanced by the savory notes of reduced-sodium soy sauce and the sweetness of brown sugar.

The addition of balsamic vinegar lends a subtle tang, complementing the aromatic freshness of flat-leaf parsley and the natural sweetness of grated onion. Ground beef chuck provides a juicy, flavorful base, making this meatloaf not only comforting but also a step up in terms of flavor complexity.

With a simple preparation process and a cooking time that allows for a perfectly tender yet firm loaf, this Soy Sauce Meatloaf is designed to be a satisfying centerpiece for any meal.

The final brush of a ketchup-based glaze adds a glossy, flavorful finish that enhances the overall dish, making it a tempting option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon plus 1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce, divided
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, coarsely grated
• 1/2 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef chuck

Directions

Step 1 -Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

Step 2 -Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil.

Step 3 -In a small bowl, add the ketchup, the brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of the soy sauce and mix to combine. Set it aside.

Step 4 -In a large bowl, add the eggs, the balsamic vinegar, the remaining soy sauce, the salt, and the pepper and whisk to combine.

Step 5 -Add the panko breadcrumbs and stir to combine.

Step 6 -Let the breadcrumbs sit in the soy sauce mixture for 2 minutes.

Step 7 -Add the onion and the parsley to the breadcrumb mixture and mix to combine.

Step 8 -Add the beef and mix gently and thoroughly just until incorporated.

Step 9 -Transfer the beef mixture to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a 9×3 1/2-inch loaf.

Step 10 -Brush the meatloaf with the ketchup mixture.

Step 11 -Bake until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 150 degrees F, about 40-45 minutes.

Step 12 -Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes.

Step 13 -Slice and serve.

FAQs for Soy Sauce Meatloaf Recipe

1. What type of ground beef is best for this meatloaf recipe? For the best flavor and moisture, it is recommended to use ground beef chuck, which typically contains a good amount of fat. This fat content ensures the meatloaf remains juicy and tender during baking.

2. Can I substitute the panko breadcrumbs with another type? Yes, you can substitute panko breadcrumbs with regular breadcrumbs or even gluten-free breadcrumbs if you’re looking for a gluten-free option. Keep in mind that panko provides a lighter, crisper texture to the meatloaf.

3. Is there a vegetarian alternative I can use instead of ground beef? To make a vegetarian version of this dish, you can use ground plant-based meat substitutes available in most supermarkets. Adjust the cooking time as necessary, since plant-based meats often cook faster than beef.

4. Can I make this meatloaf without eggs? Eggs help to bind the ingredients and add moisture, but if you need an egg-free version, you can use mashed potatoes or a commercial egg replacer as a binding agent.

5. How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked? The meatloaf is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 150 degrees F. It’s advisable to use a meat thermometer to ensure it has cooked thoroughly.

6. Can this meatloaf be made in advance? Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it a day in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator, and simply brush on the ketchup mixture before baking as per the recipe instructions.

7. How should I store leftover meatloaf? Leftover meatloaf should be cooled to room temperature, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.