Print

Cozy Meatloaf Recipe with Easy Brown Sugar Ketchup Glaze for Dinner

cozy meatloaf recipe - featured image
Print Recipe

A comforting and easy meatloaf recipe featuring a sweet and tangy brown sugar ketchup glaze that keeps the meatloaf moist and flavorful. Perfect for cozy dinners and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef (85% lean recommended)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • ¼ cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Transfer the meat mixture into the loaf pan, pressing lightly to fill the pan evenly but without compacting it too much.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth and well combined.
  5. Spread about two-thirds of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Reserve the rest for basting halfway through cooking.
  6. Place the loaf pan on the middle rack and bake for about 50 minutes.
  7. After 50 minutes, brush the remaining glaze on top. Return to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the glaze is caramelized.
  8. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to avoid a dense loaf. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to keep it moist. For a crispier crust, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully. Substitute ground turkey or chicken with added moisture for a lighter option. Gluten-free breadcrumbs and Worcestershire sauce can be used for gluten-free diets.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, ketchup glaze, comfort food, easy dinner, ground beef, cozy meal

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/cozy-meatloaf-recipe-with-easy-brown-sugar-ketchup-glaze-for-dinner/