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Comforting Classic Meatloaf Recipe with Easy Brown Sugar Ketchup Glaze

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A classic meatloaf recipe featuring a tender, moist loaf topped with a sticky, sweet brown sugar ketchup glaze that caramelizes beautifully. Perfect for family dinners and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds (680g) 80/20 ground beef
  • ¾ cup (90g) plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup (120ml) whole milk
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Brown Sugar Ketchup Glaze:
  • ½ cup (120g) ketchup
  • ¼ cup (50g) packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan lightly or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup ketchup, ¼ cup packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar until smooth. Set aside.
  3. Mix the meatloaf ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 1 ½ pounds ground beef, ¾ cup breadcrumbs, ½ cup milk, 2 large eggs, 1 finely diced small onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently without overworking.
  4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing lightly and smoothing the top.
  5. Apply the glaze evenly over the top using a basting brush or the back of a spoon.
  6. Bake on the middle rack for 55-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  7. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to avoid a dense loaf. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Rest the meatloaf for 10 minutes before slicing. If glaze darkens too quickly, tent with foil. For a juicier loaf, add a splash more milk next time.

Nutrition

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