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The Best Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze (Easy Recipe)

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This classic meatloaf features a sweet and tangy brown sugar glaze that caramelizes into a sticky, savory crust. It’s incredibly juicy, made with simple pantry ingredients, and perfect for a crowd.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 medium yellow onion, grated
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Position the rack in the center of the oven. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top if using.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Stir and let sit for 5 minutes to create a panade.
  3. Grate the onion using the large holes of a box grater directly over the bowl to catch the juice.
  4. Add the beaten eggs, garlic, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika to the bowl. Stir with a fork until well combined.
  5. Crumble the ground beef over the mixture. Use your hands to gently mix until the breadcrumb mixture is evenly incorporated. Do not overmix.
  6. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet or wire rack. Shape into a loaf about 9 inches long and 5 inches wide, making the edges slightly higher than the center.
  7. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder until smooth.
  8. Brush about half of the glaze over the top and sides of the meatloaf. Reserve the rest.
  9. Bake for 45 minutes. The meatloaf should be starting to brown and the glaze set.
  10. Remove from the oven and brush on the remaining glaze. Return to the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes.
  11. Check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer; it should read 160°F (71°C) in the center.
  12. Let the meatloaf rest on the baking sheet for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing.
  13. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into 1-inch thick pieces. Serve warm.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. For a dairy-free version, use oat milk or almond milk. The meatloaf can be shaped up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated; add 10-15 minutes to baking time if starting from cold. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://ovenmila.com/the-best-classic-meatloaf-with-brown-sugar-glaze-easy-recipe/