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Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

classic meatloaf with brown sugar glaze - featured image

A nostalgic, comfort-food meatloaf featuring a tender beef mixture and a sweet, tangy brown sugar glaze that creates an addictive caramelized crust.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup plain dried breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon butter (for sautéing)
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a sheet pan with foil or grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
  2. Sauté the diced onion in butter over medium heat for 5 minutes until soft. Add garlic in the last minute. Let cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk, sautéed onions, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Do not overmix.
  4. Shape the meat into a loaf on the sheet pan or press firmly into the loaf pan.
  5. Whisk together brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, and garlic powder to make the glaze.
  6. Bake the meatloaf for 40 minutes.
  7. Remove from oven and spread the glaze evenly over the top.
  8. Return to oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  9. Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Do not overwork the meat to avoid a dense texture. Sautéing the onions first prevents raw onion taste and excess moisture. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let the loaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

Nutrition

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