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Best Classic Meatloaf Recipe with Brown Sugar Glaze

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This classic meatloaf is tender, savory, and topped with a sticky, caramelized brown sugar glaze. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s quick to prepare and perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze)
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes to create a panade.
  3. Heat a small skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil. Cook diced onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Let cool.
  4. To the bowl with the panade, add ground beef, cooked onion and garlic, beaten eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and parsley (if using). Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
  5. Transfer meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Press gently to eliminate air pockets, shaping it slightly domed in the center.
  6. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, and garlic powder. Whisk until smooth and simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
  7. Bake meatloaf for 40 minutes.
  8. After 40 minutes, remove from oven and brush half of the glaze over the top. Return to oven and bake for 15 minutes.
  9. Apply remaining glaze and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  10. Let meatloaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes. Drain excess fat, slice, and serve with extra glaze.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meat mixture to avoid a tough meatloaf. Letting the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking is crucial for moisture. Apply glaze in layers for a caramelized crust. Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness without overcooking.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://gleefulfork.com/best-classic-meatloaf-recipe-with-brown-sugar-glaze/