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Irresistible Homestyle Meatloaf Recipe with Easy Brown Sugar Glaze

homestyle meatloaf with brown sugar glaze - featured image

A comforting and hearty homestyle meatloaf with a sticky, sweet brown sugar glaze that caramelizes beautifully, perfect for family dinners and cozy meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon mustard (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk and breadcrumbs. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to soak and soften.
  3. Add the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper to the soaked breadcrumbs. Gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  4. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet. Press lightly to form a compact shape without packing too tight.
  5. Prepare the glaze by mixing ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth.
  6. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  7. Bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Tent with aluminum foil halfway through baking if the glaze browns too quickly.
  8. Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes after removing from the oven before slicing.

Notes

Let breadcrumbs soak in milk for a tender meatloaf. Avoid overmixing to prevent density. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F. Tent with foil if glaze browns too fast. Let meatloaf rest before slicing for juiciness. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs accordingly. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk. Optional: add smoked paprika or apple cider vinegar to glaze for extra flavor.

Nutrition

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