Print

Cozy Brown Sugar Glazed Meatloaf Recipe with Caramelized Onions

brown sugar glazed meatloaf - featured image
Print Recipe

A comforting meatloaf glazed with a sweet brown sugar topping and enriched with caramelized onions for a tender, flavorful dish perfect for cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20)
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced and caramelized
  • 1/3 cup (70g) brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 3/4 cup (75g) breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned; gluten-free option available)
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) milk (whole or dairy-free alternative)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
  • For the glaze:
  • 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the onions: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes until deep golden brown and soft. Add a splash of water if onions start to stick. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper if shaping by hand.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, caramelized onions, breadcrumbs, milk, beaten eggs, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Mix gently with hands until just combined; avoid overmixing.
  4. Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan or shape into a loaf on the baking sheet. Press gently to smooth the top.
  5. Prepare the glaze by whisking together brown sugar, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Spread evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, checking doneness with an instant-read thermometer; internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). Tent with foil if glaze browns too quickly.
  7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.

Notes

Caramelize onions slowly over low heat for best flavor. Avoid overmixing meat mixture to keep meatloaf tender. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure safe cooking temperature. Glaze can be applied at the start or halfway through baking; tent with foil if browning too fast. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, caramelized onions, comfort food, easy dinner, cozy meal

Find it online: https://flurpchef.com/cozy-brown-sugar-glazed-meatloaf-recipe-with-caramelized-onions-easy-and-delicious/