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Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

classic meatloaf with brown sugar glaze - featured image

A tender, juicy meatloaf with a sticky-sweet brown sugar glaze that caramelizes into a candy-like crust. This easy fall dinner is made with simple ingredients and a foolproof technique for perfect results every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • ¾ cup ketchup
  • ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Position the rack in the center of the oven.
  2. Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ¾ cup ketchup, ¼ cup packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon yellow mustard, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder. Set aside.
  3. Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic. Optionally, sauté the onion in a little oil over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until translucent; let cool.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika (if using).
  5. Stir in the breadcrumbs until fully moistened. Let the mixture sit for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add the ground beef. Using your hands, gently fold and squeeze until just combined. Do not overmix.
  7. Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper. Transfer the meat mixture to the pan and press gently into an even loaf shape.
  8. Spoon about half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf and spread evenly.
  9. Bake for 45 minutes.
  10. Remove from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
  11. Continue baking for 15-20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  12. Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
  13. Slice into 1-inch thick slices and serve with pan juices spooned over the top.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat. Let the meatloaf rest before slicing. Apply the glaze in two layers for a thick, caramelized crust. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, easy dinner, fall dinner, comfort food, ground beef