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Easy Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe

easy classic meatloaf with brown sugar glaze - featured image

A tender, juicy meatloaf with a sweet-savory brown sugar glaze that caramelizes perfectly. This simple, comfort-food classic is easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or standard)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for meat mixture)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (for glaze)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for glaze)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) and lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
  2. Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, eggs, breadcrumbs, mustard, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with hands until just combined; do not overmix.
  4. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and press it down firmly and evenly.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining ketchup, brown sugar, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder to create the glaze.
  6. Pour the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160ยฐF (71ยฐC). If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil after 30 minutes.
  8. Remove from oven and let rest in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing.
  9. Slice into thick portions and serve warm.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to avoid a dense texture. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160ยฐF. Letting the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes is crucial to keep it moist. For a firmer loaf, chill the shaped meat in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking.

Nutrition

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