Easy Chipotle Glazed Meatloaf

Just a hint of chipotle chilies turns traditional meatloaf into something truly spectacular. The caramelized glaze is a little sweet, a little smoky, and delivers the perfect amount of fiery heat. This 3-ingredient glaze blankets an herby, cheesy, moist loaf of perfectly cooked meat. I don't know about you, but that checks all the boxes for me.

And because the glaze is so awesome, I chose a freeform loaf (rather than using a loaf pan). That way the glaze can cover almost every inch - and caramelize to perfection in the oven!

Want to prep ahead? Great. Prepare the loaf and cover it with the glaze as directed below. Cover with plastic and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Pull the loaf from the fridge 30 minutes before baking and proceed as directed.

Easy Chipotle Glazed Meatloaf

1 1/4 pounds lean ground beef
1/2 cup seasoned dry breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1/4 cup plus 3 tablespoons ketchup, divided
2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon minced chipotle chilies in adobo, plus 2 teaspoons sauce from the can

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Coat a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
To make the meatloaf, in a large bowl, combine the beef, bread crumbs, egg, 1/4 cup of the ketchup, parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, basil, oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and shape the mixture into a loaf, about 7-8 inches long by 2 1/2 inches high. Transfer the meatloaf to the prepared pan. 
In a small bowl, combine the remaining ketchup and Dijon mustard. Stir in the chipotle chilies and sauce from the can. Mix well and spread the mixture all over the meatloaf (top and sides).
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until a meat thermometer inserted into the meatloaf, not touching the bottom, reads 160 degrees. Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Serves 4