Perfect Sauce for Meatloaf Topping

1 cup sauce servings Prep: 5 m Cook: PT0M Total: 5 m Beginner
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Perfect Sauce for Meatloaf Topping
Prepare your favorite meatloaf recipe; prepare this sauce with ketchup, mustard, and Tabasco, then pour on your meatloaf and bake. Paw Paw created this one day when cooking Mawmaw’s favorite meatloaf—a sweet, tangy topping that keeps the meat moist and adds a kick of flavor.

Ingredients

1 cup sauce servings
  • 1 cup catsup or ketchup
  • 1/4 cup yellow mustard
  • 1/8 tsp mustard powder
  • 1 tbsp lite soy sauce
  • 1/2 tsp white vinegar
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper
  • 1/8 tsp Tabasco
  • sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and whisk together until well blended.
  2. Pour over your favorite meatloaf recipe before baking, or brush onto meatloaf during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Should I put the sauce on before or during baking?

A: You can do either. Pour it on before baking for maximum flavor penetration, or brush it on during the last 15-20 minutes for a glossier finish that won't caramelize as much.

Q: Can I double this recipe?

A: Absolutely. The sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to a week, so you can make extra and have it ready for your next meatloaf.

Tips and Techniques

The soy sauce adds umami depth and helps balance the sweetness of the ketchup—don’t skip it. If you like more heat, increase the Tabasco or add extra red pepper flakes to taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • yellow mustard: Dijon mustard or spicy brown mustard
  • ketchup: tomato sauce with a tablespoon of brown sugar
  • Tabasco: Louisiana hot sauce or your favorite hot pepper sauce

Equipment Needed

  • Small mixing bowl
  • Whisk or fork
  • Basting brush (if applying during cooking)