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Easy Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe

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This Easy Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze is a quick and simple weeknight dinner that delivers incredible flavor. The brown sugar glaze is mixed into the meat and brushed on top, creating a sweet-savory crust that keeps every bite moist and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 3/4 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 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). Line your loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. Or line a rimmed baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup.
  2. Make the brown sugar glaze first. In a small bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup ketchup, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Set aside half of this mixture — about 1/2 cup. You’ll mix this into the meat. The other half stays on the counter for brushing on top.
  3. Prepare your vegetables. Finely dice 1 medium yellow onion and mince 3 cloves of garlic.
  4. Combine the wet ingredients. In your large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 lightly beaten eggs, 1/2 cup milk, and 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce.
  5. Add the dry ingredients. Add 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme to the bowl. Stir until the breadcrumbs are fully moistened. Let this sit for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add the meat and vegetables. Add the 2 pounds ground beef, the diced onion, and the minced garlic. Use your hands to mix gently just until everything comes together — about 30 seconds of gentle folding.
  7. Add half the glaze to the meat mixture. Pour in the reserved 1/2 cup of glaze. Mix again with your hands until just combined.
  8. Shape the meatloaf. Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet. If using a pan, gently press it into an even loaf shape. If free-forming, shape it into a rounded rectangle about 6 inches long and 4 inches wide. Make sure the top is slightly domed.
  9. Apply the first layer of glaze. Brush about half of the remaining glaze over the top and sides of the meatloaf. Reserve the rest for later.
  10. Bake for 45 minutes. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. At this point, the internal temperature should be around 150°F (65°C).
  11. Apply the second layer of glaze. Carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. Brush the remaining glaze over the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  12. Rest before slicing. Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes.
  13. Slice and serve. Lift the meatloaf out using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into 1-inch thick pieces. Spoon any pan juices over the slices for extra flavor.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness. Let the breadcrumbs soak for 2-3 minutes. Grate the onion instead of dicing for a smoother texture. Make a double batch to freeze one. Watch the glaze to prevent burning; tent with foil if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, easy meatloaf, classic meatloaf, weeknight dinner, comfort food

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