Some recipes never go out of style. Meatloaf has been a staple of American family dinners for generations, earning its place at the table with simple ingredients, hearty flavor, and the ability to bring everyone together after a busy day.

For this installment of our Vintage Recipes Made Modern series, we’re giving this timeless comfort food a flavorful update with an ingredient that’s been bringing people together for well over a century: Coca-Cola.

Classic meatloaf recipes often feature a ketchup-based topping, but adding Coca-Cola to the glaze creates something special. As the glaze bakes, the sugars caramelize into a rich, glossy coating with just the right balance of sweetness and tang. The result is a savory, flavorful crust that complements the beef while keeping the meatloaf moist and tender.

One of the best things about vintage recipes is that they’re built on simple techniques that have stood the test of time. Modern updates don’t have to reinvent the dish; they simply add a fresh twist while preserving everything people already love. This recipe does exactly that.

Serve it alongside roasted garlic mashed potatoes, green beans, or your favorite seasonal vegetables for a meal that’s equally at home on a weeknight or at a relaxed Sunday family dinner. And don’t forget the leftovers! They make an incredible meatloaf sandwich the next day.

Whether you’re introducing this classic to a new generation or revisiting a longtime family favorite, this Coca-Cola Glazed Meatloaf is proof that some traditions only get better with time.

Coca-Cola Glazed Meatloaf

Ingredients

Meatloaf

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Coca-Cola Glaze

• ¾ cup Coca-Cola
• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine all of the meatloaf ingredients. Mix gently until everything is evenly incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a lightly greased baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the Coca-Cola, ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly.
5. Brush about one-third of the glaze over the meatloaf.
6. Bake for 45 minutes.
7. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush on another generous layer of glaze.
8. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
9. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
10. Serve with roasted garlic mashed potatoes and green beans for a comforting, classic meal.