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Classic Brown Sugar Meatloaf

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A comforting and easy-to-make meatloaf featuring a sweet and tangy brown sugar ketchup glaze that caramelizes perfectly for a delicious crust.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20)
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar (65 g)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (120 ml)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (75 g)
  • 1/3 cup milk (80 ml)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (15 ml)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (5 ml)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • For the glaze:
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (120 ml)
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar (65 g)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (15 ml)
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (5 ml)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Soak the breadcrumbs in 1/3 cup milk for 5 minutes until absorbed and soft.
  3. In a large bowl, combine soaked breadcrumbs, ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a 9×5 inch loaf pan or form a loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet (about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide).
  5. In a small saucepan over low heat, whisk together 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/3 cup brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Warm gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until smooth and sugar dissolves.
  6. Brush half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
  7. Bake for 45 minutes, then brush the remaining glaze on top and bake for an additional 15 minutes (total baking time about 60 minutes).
  8. Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer; internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). If needed, bake a few more minutes.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
  10. Slice into thick pieces and serve.

Notes

Warm the glaze gently before brushing to avoid burning and achieve perfect caramelization. Rest the meatloaf for 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy and intact. Avoid overmixing the meat to prevent toughness. Use 80/20 ground beef for best moisture and flavor. Breadcrumbs should be soaked in milk to keep the meatloaf tender. Glaze should be applied in two stages to prevent burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, brown sugar meatloaf, sweet ketchup glaze, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/classic-brown-sugar-meatloaf-recipe-easy-5-step-sweet-ketchup-glaze-guide/