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Classic Meatloaf Recipe with Sweet Brown Sugar Glaze

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A comforting classic meatloaf with a sweet brown sugar glaze that balances savory meat with a sticky, caramelized crust. Easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • ½ pound ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • ⅓ cup whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar (dark brown sugar preferred)
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, and breadcrumbs.
  3. Add eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix gently until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
  4. Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing down evenly. Alternatively, shape into an 8-inch loaf on a rimmed baking sheet.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and glossy.
  6. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  7. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Halfway through baking, baste with leftover glaze if desired.
  8. Remove from oven and let rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
  9. Slice into thick pieces and serve warm with your favorite sides.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid a dense loaf. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safety and juiciness. Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to retain juices. You can baste with extra glaze halfway through baking for a thicker crust. For a leaner version, substitute ground beef and pork with ground turkey. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used to make this recipe gluten-free. Adding a splash of milk or broth can help if the mixture feels dry. Piercing the meatloaf halfway through baking helps steam escape and keeps texture moist.

Nutrition

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

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