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Easy Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

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This classic meatloaf with brown sugar glaze is simple, forgiving, and tastes like home. The sweet and savory glaze caramelizes on top, creating a sticky-sweet crust that contrasts with the tender, juicy meatloaf underneath.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg (room temperature)
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze)
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed, light or dark)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for glaze)
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. Place the pan on a baking sheet.
  2. Whisk the glaze ingredients together in a small bowl: 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/3 cup packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder if using. Set aside about 1/4 cup of this mixture for later.
  3. In your large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme. Whisk together.
  4. In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg and milk together. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until the breadcrumbs are moistened. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Add the ground beef and the remaining glaze (not the reserved portion). Pour the ketchup and Worcestershire sauce over the meat. Mix gently with your hands until just incorporated. Do not overmix.
  6. Transfer the mixture to your prepared loaf pan. Press it in gently, making sure there are no air pockets. Smooth the top.
  7. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes.
  8. Remove the pan from the oven and spread the reserved glaze over the top. Return the pan to the oven.
  9. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  10. Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes.
  11. Lift the meatloaf out using the parchment paper overhang. Transfer to a cutting board, slice into 1-inch thick pieces, and serve warm.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture to avoid a dense texture. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute. The glaze should be added halfway through baking to prevent burning.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://sparklechew.com/easy-classic-meatloaf-with-brown-sugar-glaze/