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The Best Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe

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This classic meatloaf with a sweet and tangy brown sugar glaze is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make with simple ingredients. Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or any occasion where you want a hearty, delicious meal.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the long sides.
  2. Prepare the glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/3 cup packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Whisk until the brown sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a gentle simmer, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup plain breadcrumbs and 1/2 cup whole milk. Let sit for 2-3 minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk.
  4. Add the finely diced onion, minced garlic, 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mixture. Stir until well combined.
  5. Add the lightly beaten eggs and mix gently. Then add the ground beef. Use your hands to mix everything together until just combined—do not overmix.
  6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Press gently to shape, forming a slight dome on top. Do not pack too firmly.
  7. Pour about two-thirds of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, spreading evenly. Reserve the remaining glaze for serving.
  8. Place the loaf pan on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 55-65 minutes, until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 160°F (71°C).
  9. Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Use the parchment overhang to lift it out, then transfer to a cutting board.
  10. Slice into 1-inch thick slices and serve with the reserved glaze, warmed if desired.

Notes

Don’t skip the panade (breadcrumb-milk mixture) for a tender meatloaf. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to keep it moist. Double the glaze if you want extra for serving.

Nutrition

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

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