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Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze: Easy 30-Min Recipe

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This classic meatloaf features a sticky, caramelized brown sugar glaze that contrasts perfectly with the tender, savory meat. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing comfort food perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • ½ cup yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides.
  2. In your large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them sit for about 5 minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk and become soft.
  3. To the soaked breadcrumbs, add the beaten egg, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, dried thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until well combined.
  4. Add the ground beef to the bowl. Use your hands to gently mix until the breadcrumb mixture is evenly distributed throughout the beef. Do not overwork the meat.
  5. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Gently press it into an even shape, avoiding air pockets. Do not pack it down too firmly.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika (if using) until smooth.
  7. Pour about half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Use the back of a spoon to spread it evenly, letting it drip down the sides. Reserve the remaining glaze.
  8. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes.
  9. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 160°F (71°C) at the center.
  10. Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift it out, then slice and serve.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meat to avoid a dense texture. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. For a dairy-free version, swap milk for unsweetened almond or oat milk.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://yumbelle.com/classic-meatloaf-with-brown-sugar-glaze-easy-30-min-recipe/