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Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze: Best Easy Dinner Recipe

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This Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze is a foolproof, comforting dinner that features a tender, seasoned meatloaf topped with a sticky, caramelized brown sugar glaze. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients and is perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (900g) ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs, plain or Italian-style
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • ½ cup (120ml) whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • ¼ cup (60ml) ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • ½ cup (120ml) ketchup (for glaze)
  • ⅓ cup (67g) packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for glaze)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. If shaping free-form, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup ketchup, ⅓ cup packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon mustard powder (if using). Set aside.
  3. Sauté the aromatics: In a small skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the finely diced onion for 4-5 minutes until translucent and soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Let cool slightly.
  4. Combine the meatloaf ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, sautéed onion and garlic, beaten eggs, milk, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, ¼ cup ketchup, dried parsley, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing gently into an even shape. If using a baking sheet, shape into a loaf about 6 inches long and 4 inches wide, with a slightly domed top.
  6. Apply the glaze: Spread about half of the brown sugar glaze evenly over the top and sides of the meatloaf. Reserve the rest.
  7. Bake for 45 minutes: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
  8. Add the remaining glaze: Carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  9. Rest before slicing: Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10-15 minutes after removing from the oven.
  10. Slice and serve: Lift the meatloaf out of the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into 1-inch thick pieces. Spoon any remaining glaze from the pan over the slices. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Don’t skip sautéing the onion—it softens the flavor and prevents sogginess. Use a light hand when mixing to avoid a dense texture. Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to keep it moist. For extra flavor, double the glaze and drizzle over slices when serving. If you don’t have a loaf pan, shape the meatloaf free-form on a baking sheet for more caramelized edges.

Nutrition

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

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