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Best Classic Old-Fashioned Meatloaf Recipe (Brown Sugar Glaze)

classic old-fashioned meatloaf with brown sugar glaze - featured image

This classic old-fashioned meatloaf with brown sugar glaze is incredibly moist and tender, featuring a sweet and tangy caramelized crust. Made with simple, everyday ingredients, it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for weeknight dinners and meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs (900g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 cup (120g) plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3/4 cup (180ml) ketchup (for glaze)
  • 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar (for glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) apple cider vinegar (for glaze)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
  2. Heat a small skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the finely chopped onion for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes to create a panade.
  4. To the panade, add eggs, Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 cup ketchup, dried parsley, salt, pepper, and the cooled onion-garlic mixture. Stir to combine.
  5. Add ground beef and gently mix with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and gently press into an even shape, avoiding air pockets.
  7. In a small bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup ketchup, packed brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce for the glaze.
  8. Place the loaf pan on the prepared baking sheet and bake uncovered for 45 minutes.
  9. After 45 minutes, brush or spoon half the glaze over the meatloaf. Bake for 15 more minutes.
  10. Apply the remaining glaze and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
  11. Check doneness with a meat thermometer; internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
  12. Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds. For dairy-free, use unsweetened almond milk. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep it moist. The glaze is applied in two layers for a thick, caramelized crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, old-fashioned meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, classic meatloaf, comfort food, ground beef recipe, easy dinner