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Best Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

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This classic meatloaf with a sweet and savory brown sugar glaze is the ultimate comfort food. Made with simple ingredients and a perfect balance of flavors, it’s juicy, tender, and topped with a caramelized glaze that everyone loves.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze and mixture)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed, light or dark)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 medium onion (finely diced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar to make the glaze. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Set aside.
  3. Dice half a medium onion into small pieces (about 1/4-inch) and mince two cloves of garlic. If desired, sauté the onion in a little oil for 3-4 minutes until softened; let cool.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together one large egg, 1/4 cup milk, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and half of the prepared glaze mixture until well combined.
  5. Add 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme or parsley (if using). Stir until the breadcrumbs are moistened. Let sit for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Using clean hands or a fork, gently mix everything together until just combined. Do not overmix.
  7. Transfer the meat mixture to the greased loaf pan and gently press it down evenly without packing too tightly.
  8. Spread the remaining glaze mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  9. Place the loaf pan on a baking sheet and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  10. Remove from the oven and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let rest for 10-15 minutes.
  11. Slice and serve warm with your favorite sides.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meat to avoid a dense texture. Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to keep it from falling apart. For a thicker glaze, brush on an extra layer during the last 10 minutes of baking. The meatloaf tastes even better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: classic meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, comfort food, family dinner, easy meatloaf

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