Discover the Ultimate Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe

Meatloaf has long been a beloved comfort food classic, a hearty and satisfying dinner that families have enjoyed for generations. This Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze takes the traditional recipe and elevates it with a sweet and savory topping that caramelizes in the oven, creating a mouthwatering masterpiece. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a cozy weeknight meal, this meatloaf is sure to become a new household favorite.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

The key to a delicious meatloaf lies in the perfect balance of ingredients. For this recipe, you’ll need:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 eggs
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the delectable brown sugar glaze, you’ll combine:

• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Preparing the Meatloaf

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense and tough meatloaf.

Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing it evenly into the pan.

Making the Brown Sugar Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, 1/2 cup ketchup, Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This sweet and tangy glaze will add a delightful caramelized crust to the meatloaf.

Baking the Meatloaf

Spread the brown sugar glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Bake the meatloaf, uncovered, for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Once it’s done, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze pairs perfectly with classic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying dinner. The sweet and savory flavors also make it a great option for leftovers, as the meatloaf slices hold their shape well and can be easily reheated. Enjoy this comforting dish with your loved ones for a meal that’s sure to bring everyone to the table.

Variations on the Classic Meatloaf

While this Brown Sugar Glaze Meatloaf is a true crowd-pleaser, there are endless ways to put your own spin on the classic recipe. Try swapping out the ground beef for a blend of ground meats, such as pork or turkey, for a different flavor profile. You could also experiment with various herb and spice combinations, or incorporate diced vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.

For a vegetarian or gluten-free option, you can use plant-based meat alternatives or gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of the traditional ingredients. The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing this versatile dish to suit your tastes and dietary needs.

FAQs About Meatloaf

What can you use instead of meatloaf glaze?

If you don’t have the ingredients for the brown sugar glaze, you can try using other sweet and savory toppings, such as barbecue sauce, ketchup, or a mixture of honey and Dijon mustard. These alternatives will still provide a delicious caramelized crust on the meatloaf.

What is the secret to a great meat loaf?

The secret to a fantastic meatloaf is to avoid overworking the meat mixture. Gently combine the ingredients until they are just incorporated, as overmixing can result in a dense and tough texture. Additionally, using a blend of meats, such as ground beef and pork, can add depth of flavor and moisture to the final dish.

When to put glaze on meatloaf?

The best time to apply the glaze to the meatloaf is about halfway through the baking time. This allows the glaze to caramelize and create a delicious, shiny crust on the top of the meatloaf. If you add the glaze too early, it may burn, and if you add it too late, it may not have enough time to set properly.

Does meatloaf bake covered?

Meatloaf is typically baked uncovered in the oven. This allows the exterior to brown and develop a nice crust, while the interior cooks through. Covering the meatloaf can result in a more steamed texture, so it’s best to keep it uncovered during the entire baking process.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
• Smoky Bacon Mac and Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf
• BBQ Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf Bombs
• BBQ Bacon Stuffed Meatloaf Rolls

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