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

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A nostalgic, tender meatloaf with a sticky-sweet brown sugar glaze that caramelizes into an almost-candy crust. This budget-friendly, kid-approved recipe brings everyone to the table and makes for amazing leftovers.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your loaf pan with foil or parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting.
  2. Prepare the glaze first. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/3 cup packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon mustard powder. Set aside.
  3. Sauté the onion. Heat a teaspoon of oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Let it cool slightly.
  4. Mix the meatloaf. In your large bowl, combine 2 pounds ground beef, 1 cup breadcrumbs, the sautéed onion, 2 beaten eggs, 1/2 cup milk, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. Use your hands to mix gently until just combined.
  5. Shape the loaf. Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan. Press it gently into an even shape, making sure there are no air pockets.
  6. Apply the first layer of glaze. Spoon about half the glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Spread it evenly, letting some drip down the sides. Reserve the rest for later.
  7. Bake for 45 minutes. Place the meatloaf on the middle rack. After 45 minutes, remove it from the oven and spoon the remaining glaze over the top. Return to the oven for another 15-20 minutes.
  8. Check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when measured with an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center.
  9. Rest before slicing. Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes.
  10. Slice and serve. Use the foil overhang to lift the meatloaf out of the pan. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into 1-inch thick pieces. Spoon any pan juices over the slices.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meatloaf to keep it tender. Use a thermometer for perfect doneness. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Line the pan for easy cleanup. If the glaze gets too dark, tent with foil.

Nutrition

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

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