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Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze: Best Easy Recipe

classic meatloaf with brown sugar glaze - featured image

A moist and flavorful meatloaf featuring a savory-sweet brown sugar glaze that caramelizes into a delicious crust. This easy, foolproof recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 cup plain dried breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, or line with parchment paper.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together milk and breadcrumbs; let sit for 5 minutes.
  4. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, milk-breadcrumb mixture, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with hands until just combined.
  5. Transfer mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing down firmly and smoothing the top.
  6. In a separate small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and soy sauce until smooth.
  7. Pour half of the glaze over the raw meatloaf.
  8. Bake for 30 minutes.
  9. Remove from oven and pour remaining glaze over the top.
  10. Return to oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  11. Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to avoid a dense texture. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Letting the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes is crucial for retaining juices. If the glaze browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil during baking.

Nutrition

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