Best Glaze Meat Cake in pan

For the Meat Cake:

• 1 cup fresh bread crumbs (from about 2 slices of white bread, processed into crumbs)
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 for best flavor and texture)
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze:

• 4 slices thick-cut bacon
• ½ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

For the Roasted Broccoli:

• 1 ½ pounds broccoli florets (fresh, cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon seasoned salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (from about half a lemon)

For Serving:

• Warm dinner rolls
• Butter, for spreading

How to Make Glaze Meat Cake with Crispy Roasted Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Cake

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray. Sprinkle half of the baking sheet evenly with the bread crumbs.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread crumbs and milk. Let sit for 2–3 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the milk.
4. Add the ground beef, eggs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, seasoned salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Mix with your hands until fully combined, ensuring the bread crumbs are evenly incorporated.
5. Transfer the mixture to the breadcrumb-coated half of the baking sheet. Shape it into a flat, even rectangle, about 1-inch thick.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

1. In a medium bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, seasoned salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
2. Spread the broccoli on the other half of the baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the broccoli begins to brown at the edges.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

1. While the meat cake and broccoli are baking, cook the bacon in a medium skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5–7 minutes.
2. Remove the bacon from the skillet and let it cool slightly, then crumble it into small pieces.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.

Step 4: Glaze and Finish Baking

1. After the initial 10 minutes of baking, remove the baking sheet from the oven.
2. Stir the broccoli to ensure even roasting.
3. Brush the glaze evenly over the top of the meat cake and sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top.
4. Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue baking for an additional 10–12 minutes, or until the meat cake is cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F/71°C) and slightly golden, and the broccoli is tender and golden.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Drizzle the lemon juice over the roasted broccoli and toss gently to combine.
2. Cut the meat cake into squares and garnish with additional chopped parsley.
3. Serve hot with the roasted broccoli and warm dinner rolls slathered with butter.

Best glaze salmon with apple cider: how to make apple cider salmon

Tips for Success

• Bread Crumbs: Use fresh bread crumbs for the best texture. If you only have dry bread crumbs, reduce the amount to ¾ cup to avoid a dense meat cake.
• Meat Choice: An 80/20 ground beef blend provides the right balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner beef may result in a drier meat cake.
• Bacon: For extra smoky flavor, use thick-cut, applewood-smoked bacon. If you prefer less fat, drain the bacon well before crumbling.
• Broccoli: Ensure the broccoli florets are cut into uniform sizes for even roasting. If you like extra crispy broccoli, spread it out more on the baking sheet to avoid steaming.
• Glaze Variations: For a spicier glaze, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the mixture.
• Make Ahead: The meat mixture can be prepared and shaped on the baking sheet up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then add the glaze and bacon just before baking.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.
• Serving Suggestion: Pair with mashed potatoes or a simple green salad for an even heartier meal.

More Ground Meat Recipes

If you loved this meat cake, try these other delicious ground meat dishes:

• Meat Burrito Bowls: A customizable, one-bowl meal with seasoned beef, rice, and your favorite toppings.
• Hamburger Soup: A cozy, veggie-packed soup that’s perfect for chilly nights.
• Taco Skillet Dinner: A quick and flavorful one-pan dish with ground beef, taco seasoning, and cheesy goodness.

Enjoy this comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!