Why Make This Recipe

Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze is a classic comfort dish that brings warmth to any dinner table. Its savory meat combined with a sweet and tangy glaze creates a delicious balance of flavors. This recipe is not only easy to make but also a great way to feed a family or have leftovers for lunch. Plus, the use of simple ingredients makes it accessible for everyone to try.

How to Make Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

Ingredients:

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
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for glaze)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F.
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce for the glaze. Heat over medium heat until smooth.
Spoon half of the glaze over the meatloaf. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
After 40 minutes, add the remaining glaze and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

Serve the meatloaf warm, sliced into hearty pieces. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple side salad. Drizzle some of the glaze on the plate for added flavor and presentation.

How to Store Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3–4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture; this helps keep the meatloaf tender.
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
If you want a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.

Variation

For a healthier version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Additionally, you can use whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.

FAQs

1. Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time. Just cover it and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake.

2. What can I do if my meatloaf is too dry?
Make sure you add enough moisture, like milk or eggs. If it turns out dry, you can serve it with extra gravy or sauce to add moisture.

3. Can I use a different glaze?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different glazes using barbecue sauce, honey, or even a teriyaki sauce for a unique flavor twist.