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Classic Meatloaf Recipe with Brown Sugar Glaze Best Easy

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This classic meatloaf recipe with brown sugar glaze uses a double-glaze method for incredible sweet-savory flavor in every bite. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1/2 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze)
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for glaze)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Position the rack in the center of the oven. Line your loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides.
  2. Make the brown sugar glaze first. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, packed brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Set aside about 1/4 cup of this mixture to mix into the meat. The rest will go on top.
  3. Prepare your onion and garlic. Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic cloves. If using fresh parsley, chop it now.
  4. Combine the meat mixture. In your large mixing bowl, add the ground beef and ground pork. Break them up gently with your hands. Add the breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, beaten eggs, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, dried thyme, and the 1/4 cup of glaze you set aside.
  5. Mix gently using your hands until everything is just combined. Do not overmix. Mix for about 60 seconds total.
  6. Transfer the mixture to your prepared loaf pan. Press it in gently, making sure there are no air pockets. Shape the top into a slight dome.
  7. Brush about half of the remaining glaze over the top and sides of the meatloaf. Reserve the rest for later.
  8. Bake for 45 minutes at 350°F. Place the loaf pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
  9. After 45 minutes, carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. Brush on the remaining glaze. Return to the oven for another 15-20 minutes.
  10. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 160°F (71°C) in the center.
  11. Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift it out and transfer to a wire rack or cutting board.
  12. Slice and serve with a sharp knife into 1-inch thick slices. Spoon any remaining pan juices over the slices if desired.

Notes

Don’t skip the panade (breadcrumbs and liquid) to keep meatloaf tender. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Let meat come to room temperature before mixing. Sauté onion for 3-4 minutes for a more uniform texture. Double the glaze recipe for extra to serve on the side.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, classic meatloaf, easy meatloaf, family dinner, comfort food

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