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Best Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

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This old-fashioned meatloaf features a sweet and tangy brown sugar glaze that caramelizes into a sticky, delicious crust. It’s an easy, comforting dinner that’s perfect for family meals and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • ½ cup ketchup (for glaze)
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed (light or dark)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for glaze)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Position the rack in the center of the oven. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. Sauté the onion and garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Make the brown sugar glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup ketchup, ⅓ cup packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder. Set aside.
  4. Combine the meatloaf ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add 2 pounds ground beef (80/20), 1 cup breadcrumbs, the sautéed onion and garlic, 2 lightly beaten eggs, ½ cup whole milk, ¼ cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. If using a baking sheet, shape it into a loaf about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. If using a loaf pan, press the mixture gently into the pan.
  6. Apply the first layer of glaze: Using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, spread about half of the brown sugar glaze evenly over the top and sides of the meatloaf. Reserve the rest for later.
  7. Bake for 45 minutes: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
  8. Apply the second layer of glaze: Carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. Brush or spoon the remaining glaze over the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the center.
  9. Rest before slicing: Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest on the baking sheet for 10-15 minutes.
  10. Slice and serve: Use a sharp knife to cut the meatloaf into 1-inch thick slices. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to avoid a tough meatloaf. Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute. Apply the glaze in two stages for a thick, caramelized crust. If the glaze starts to burn, tent the meatloaf with aluminum foil.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, old-fashioned meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, comfort food, ground beef, easy dinner, family meal

Find it online: https://cookdella.com/best-old-fashioned-meatloaf-with-brown-sugar-glaze/