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brown sugar glazed meatloaf - featured image

Best Classic Brown Sugar Glazed Meatloaf Recipe

  • Author: Sarah Wasserman
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

This classic brown sugar glazed meatloaf is tender, juicy, and topped with a sticky, sweet-tangy glaze. It’s a forgiving, crowd-pleasing comfort food that’s perfect for Sunday supper or a busy weeknight.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs (Panko preferred)
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (dark preferred)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the panade: In a large mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Stir until breadcrumbs are completely soaked. Let sit for 5 minutes.
  2. Prep the aromatics: Finely dice onion and mince garlic. Sauté onion in a tiny bit of oil for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Let cool slightly.
  3. Make the brown sugar glaze: In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and cayenne (if using). Whisk over medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sugar is dissolved and glaze thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. Combine the meatloaf ingredients: To the bowl with the panade, add beaten egg, sautéed onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Mix until well combined. Add ground beef and mix gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Shape the meatloaf: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Transfer meat mixture onto the prepared sheet and shape into a loaf about 9 inches long and 5 inches wide, roughly uniform in thickness.
  6. Bake and glaze: Place meatloaf in preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and brush about one-third of the glaze evenly over the top and sides. Return to oven and bake for another 15 minutes. Apply another layer of glaze (another third). Bake for a final 10-15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  7. Rest and serve: Let meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Brush on remaining glaze for extra gloss. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure 160°F. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Glaze in stages for a thicker crust. Line the pan for easy cleanup. For a free-form loaf, shape on a lined baking sheet for more caramelized glaze.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55-65 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of meat
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 18
  • Sodium: 680
  • Fat: 22
  • Saturated Fat: 8
  • Carbohydrates: 28
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 28

Keywords: meatloaf, brown sugar glazed meatloaf, classic meatloaf, comfort food, Sunday supper, easy dinner, ground beef recipe

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Find it online: https://flavorfullrecipes.com/best-classic-brown-sugar-glazed-meatloaf-recipe/