Print

Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze: Easy Kid-Approved Dinner

classic meatloaf with brown sugar glaze - featured image
Print Recipe

This Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze is a tender, juicy meatloaf topped with a sticky-sweet caramelized glaze. Made with simple, budget-friendly ingredients, it’s a kid-approved dinner that comes together in under an hour and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Position the rack in the center of the oven. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil (if using foil, spray lightly with cooking spray).
  2. Sweat the onion and garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. Combine the meatloaf ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, cooled onion mixture, beaten eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Use your hands to gently mix until just combined.
  4. Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Shape into a loaf about 8 inches long, 5 inches wide, and 2 inches high. Do not pack too tightly.
  5. Make the brown sugar glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, packed brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and yellow mustard until smooth.
  6. Apply the glaze: Using a pastry brush or spoon, spread about half the glaze evenly over the top and sides of the meatloaf. Reserve the remaining glaze.
  7. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes.
  8. Check for doneness: The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) at the thickest part.
  9. Rest before slicing: Let the meatloaf rest on the baking sheet for 10 minutes.
  10. Slice and serve: Use a sharp knife to cut into 1-inch thick slices. Transfer to a serving platter and spoon any accumulated juices over the top.

Notes

Don’t skip sweating the onion—it prevents harsh flavor and excess moisture. Use a meat thermometer for best results. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy. If the glaze starts to burn, tent with foil.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, kid-friendly, easy dinner, comfort food, ground beef

Find it online: https://goldensimmer.com/classic-meatloaf-with-brown-sugar-glaze-easy-kid-approved-dinner/