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Classic Homestyle Meatloaf Recipe with Easy Sweet Brown Sugar Glaze

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A comforting and moist classic homestyle meatloaf topped with a sticky, sweet brown sugar glaze that caramelizes perfectly to keep every bite flavorful and tender.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 ratio)
  • 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1/4 cup ketchup (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. If desired, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in a small skillet over medium heat with a teaspoon of oil until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Let cool slightly.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup breadcrumbs with 1/4 cup milk. Let soak for 5 minutes to soften.
  4. Add 1.5 lbs ground beef, 1 large egg, and the sautéed onion and garlic (or raw if preferred) to the soaked breadcrumbs. Stir gently with a wooden spoon until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
  5. Mix in 1/3 cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
  6. Transfer the mixture into a 9×5 inch loaf pan and press evenly. Alternatively, shape into an 8×4 inch loaf on a rimmed baking sheet.
  7. Prepare the glaze by combining 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup ketchup, and 1 tablespoon yellow mustard in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and spread evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  8. Bake on the center rack for 55-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If the glaze browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil after 40 minutes.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid a dense loaf. Soaking breadcrumbs in milk is key for moisture. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Rest the meatloaf before slicing for juiciness. You can apply the glaze at the start or halfway through baking; if browning too fast, tent with foil. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Optional additions include grated vegetables or cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, classic meatloaf, homestyle meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, easy meatloaf, comfort food, family dinner

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/classic-homestyle-meatloaf-recipe-with-easy-sweet-brown-sugar-glaze/