Print

Classic Meatloaf Recipe Easy Comforting Meatloaf with Sweet Brown Sugar Glaze

classic meatloaf recipe with sweet brown sugar glaze - featured image

A comforting classic meatloaf with a sweet brown sugar glaze that is quick and easy to make, perfect for family dinners and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds (680 g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • ½ cup (50 g) plain breadcrumbs (panko works well)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) ketchup
  • ¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan lightly or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and whole milk. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme if using.
  3. Mix gently but thoroughly using a wooden spoon or your hands. Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense loaf.
  4. Transfer the meat mixture to the loaf pan, pressing it in evenly but not too tightly.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
  6. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  7. Bake for 55-60 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Halfway through baking, spoon some glaze juices over the loaf if desired.
  8. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to keep the loaf tender. Use room temperature eggs and milk for better mixing. Rest the meatloaf after baking to keep it juicy. Tent with foil if glaze browns too fast. Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking.

Nutrition

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