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Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze: Easy Homemade Dinner

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This Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze is a simple, crowd-pleasing dinner that transforms a humble loaf of ground meat into something special. The sweet and tangy glaze caramelizes in the oven, creating a sticky, dark crust that keeps the meatloaf moist and flavorful.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides.
  2. Make the brown sugar glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine ½ cup packed brown sugar, ½ cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Sauté the aromatics: Heat a small skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil. Add the finely diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more, until fragrant. Let cool for a few minutes.
  4. Combine the meatloaf ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, beaten eggs, sautéed onion and garlic, ¼ cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Test the seasoning: Pinch off a small piece of the meat mixture, flatten it into a patty, and cook it in a skillet for a minute on each side. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Gently press it into an even shape, making sure there are no air pockets. Do not pack it down too hard.
  7. Apply the first layer of glaze: Pour about half of the brown sugar glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Use a basting brush or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly, letting some drip down the sides. Reserve the remaining glaze.
  8. Bake the meatloaf: Place the pan on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and carefully pour off any excess fat that has collected in the pan.
  9. Apply the second layer of glaze: Spread the remaining glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Return it to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the center.
  10. Rest the meatloaf: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift the meatloaf out of the pan, then transfer it to a cutting board. Slice into 1-inch thick pieces and serve with any extra glaze from the pan spooned over the top.

Notes

Don’t skip the milk—it creates a panade that keeps the meatloaf moist. Use a gentle hand when mixing to avoid tough meatloaf. Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute. Line your pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Double the glaze if you love extra to serve on the side.

Nutrition

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

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