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Tender Classic Meatloaf Recipe with Sweet Brown Sugar Glaze

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A tender and moist classic meatloaf with a sweet brown sugar glaze that balances savory and sweet flavors, perfect for family dinners and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds (680 grams) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 cup (90 grams) breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style, soaked in milk)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ cup (120 ml) ketchup
  • ¼ cup (50 grams) packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan lightly or line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them soak for about 5 minutes until soft and soggy.
  3. Add the ground beef, eggs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried thyme to the soaked breadcrumbs. Mix gently with your hands until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
  4. Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press lightly to form a uniform shape but don’t pack too tightly. If using a baking sheet, shape into a loaf about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide.
  5. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Brush half the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  6. Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, brush the remaining glaze on top and continue baking for another 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  7. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  8. Slice and serve with your favorite sides.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to keep the loaf tender. Soak breadcrumbs in milk for moisture. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Apply glaze twice during baking for best flavor and caramelization. Let meatloaf rest before slicing to retain juices. Tent with foil if glaze darkens too much.

Nutrition

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

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