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Cozy Honey Garlic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

honey garlic meatloaf with brown sugar glaze - featured image

A nostalgic, tender meatloaf with a sticky-sweet honey garlic glaze and caramelized brown sugar crust, inspired by a beloved diner recipe.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze)
  • 1/4 cup honey (for glaze)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed (for glaze)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (for glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for glaze)
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Position rack in center. If using a glass loaf pan, reduce to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Make the glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder. Whisk until brown sugar dissolves and mixture simmers gently, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Prepare aromatics: Finely dice onion and mince garlic.
  4. Combine wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 beaten eggs, 1/2 cup milk, 1/4 cup ketchup, and 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
  5. Add dry ingredients: Stir in 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. Let sit for 2 minutes.
  6. Add ground beef: Add 2 pounds ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Gently mix with hands until just combined (about 30 seconds). Do not overmix.
  7. Shape meatloaf: Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Transfer mixture and press gently into an even loaf shape. Create a slight indent down the center.
  8. Apply first glaze layer: Pour about half of the prepared glaze over the meatloaf and spread evenly.
  9. Bake covered: Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
  10. Bake uncovered: Remove foil and bake for another 20 minutes.
  11. Apply final glaze layer: Brush remaining glaze over the top. Return to oven (uncovered) for 10-15 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  12. Rest: Let meatloaf rest in pan for 10 minutes before slicing.
  13. Slice and serve: Cut into clean slices with a sharp knife.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk. For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds. The glaze can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Leftovers keep for up to 4 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, honey garlic, brown sugar glaze, comfort food, easy dinner, ground beef