Print

Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe: Easy & Best

brown sugar glaze meatloaf - featured image
Print Recipe

This classic meatloaf features a tender, moist texture and a sweet-savory brown sugar glaze that caramelizes into a sticky, glossy crust. It’s an easy, family-friendly dinner that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Place a 9×5-inch loaf pan on the sheet.
  2. In a small skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the diced onion for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Let cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 2-3 minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the liquid.
  4. Add the ground beef, beaten eggs, sautéed onion and garlic, ¼ cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard (if using), parsley, salt, pepper, and thyme to the breadcrumb mixture. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Transfer the mixture to the loaf pan. Press gently to remove air pockets and shape the top into a slight dome.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, ¼ cup ketchup, apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder until smooth. Set aside.
  7. Bake the meatloaf for 30 minutes.
  8. Remove from the oven and brush or spoon about half the glaze evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for 15 minutes.
  9. Remove again and brush on the remaining glaze. Bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  10. Remove from the oven and let rest in the pan for 10 minutes.
  11. Carefully transfer to a cutting board. Slice into 1-inch thick pieces. Spoon any remaining pan juices over the slices before serving.

Notes

Don’t skip the panade (breadcrumbs soaked in milk) for a tender texture. Use a light hand when mixing to avoid a dense loaf. Layer the glaze in two stages for a thick, caramelized crust. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute. A meat thermometer ensures perfect doneness at 160°F.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://perkypan.com/classic-meatloaf-with-brown-sugar-glaze-recipe-easy-and-best/