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Best Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

classic meatloaf with brown sugar glaze - featured image

This classic meatloaf with a sweet and tangy brown sugar ketchup glaze is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. It’s a forgiving, crowd-pleasing recipe that proves meatloaf can be amazing.

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
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides.
  2. Finely dice the onion.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for the glaze. Set aside.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
  5. Add breadcrumbs, diced onion, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley (if using) to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined. Let sit for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add ground beef to the bowl. Using your hands, gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
  7. Transfer meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Gently press into an even loaf shape, avoiding air pockets. Do not pack tightly.
  8. Place loaf pan on a baking sheet and bake for 40 minutes.
  9. Remove from oven and spread half the glaze over the top. Return to oven and bake for 15 minutes.
  10. Remove from oven and spread remaining glaze on top. Bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  11. Let meatloaf rest in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender. Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to prevent it from falling apart. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds. For a turkey version, add an extra egg and 2 tablespoons olive oil.

Nutrition

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