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Classic Meatloaf Recipe with Brown Sugar Ketchup Glaze

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This classic meatloaf recipe features a sticky, sweet-tangy brown sugar ketchup glaze that caramelizes into a magical crust. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that comes together with simple pantry staples.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs (Panko or gluten-free work)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup whole milk (2% or oat milk in a pinch)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (3/4 teaspoon if using table salt)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 3/4 cup ketchup (Heinz preferred)
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar (dark brown sugar works)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper or line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
  2. Make the glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 3/4 cup ketchup, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and cayenne (if using). Whisk until sugar dissolves and mixture is smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Simmer gently for 1 minute, then remove from heat. Set aside 1/4 cup for basting later.
  3. Sauté aromatics: In a small skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of oil and cook diced onion until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Let cool for a few minutes.
  4. Mix meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, sautéed onion and garlic, beaten eggs, milk, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—do not overmix.
  5. Shape and glaze: Transfer mixture to prepared pan or shape into a loaf on the rack. Brush about half of the reserved glaze over the top and sides.
  6. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove from oven and brush on another layer of the reserved glaze. Return to oven and bake until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), about 15-20 more minutes (total 60-70 minutes).
  7. Rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Slice into 1-inch thick pieces and serve with remaining glaze spooned over the top.

Notes

Don’t skip the milk—it keeps the meatloaf tender. Let the onions cool before adding to the meat mixture to avoid a crumbly texture. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. Glaze in layers for a thick, caramelized crust. Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://sweetstirring.com/classic-meatloaf-recipe-with-brown-sugar-ketchup-glaze/