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Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze – Easy Weeknight Dinner

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This classic meatloaf features a sweet and tangy brown sugar glaze that caramelizes into a sticky, irresistible crust. It’s juicy, tender, and incredibly easy to make with simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs (900 g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 cup (120 g) breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk (whole milk preferred)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) ketchup (plus more for glaze)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • For the Brown Sugar Glaze:
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) ketchup
  • 1/3 cup (70 g) packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/3 cup packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard. Set aside.
  3. In a small skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Cook the diced onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Let cool slightly.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 lbs ground beef, 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup milk, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup ketchup, the sautéed onion and garlic, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Mix with your hands until just combined.
  5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Shape into a loaf about 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 2 inches high.
  6. Using a pastry brush or spoon, spread half of the glaze evenly over the top and sides of the meatloaf. Reserve the remaining glaze.
  7. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove from the oven and spread the remaining glaze on top. Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  8. Remove from the oven and let rest on the baking sheet for 10-15 minutes.
  9. Slice into 1-inch thick slices and serve warm.

Notes

For extra caramelization, broil the meatloaf for 2-3 minutes after the final glaze application. Watch closely to prevent burning. Let the breadcrumbs soak in milk for 5 minutes before adding to the meat for extra moisture. Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid a dense texture.

Nutrition

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

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