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Easy Best Kid-Approved Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

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This classic meatloaf features a tender, juicy interior and a sticky, tangy-sweet brown sugar glaze that caramelizes into a gorgeous crust. It’s a budget-friendly, kid-approved comfort food that’s perfect for weeknight dinners and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (900g) ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
  • ½ cup (120ml) milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup (60ml) ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • For the Brown Sugar Glaze:
  • ½ cup (120ml) ketchup
  • ⅓ cup (67g) packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) Worcestershire sauce
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Position the rack in the center of the oven. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup ketchup, ⅓ cup packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and ¼ teaspoon garlic powder. Set aside.
  3. Sauté the onion and garlic (optional but recommended): Heat a small skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more until fragrant. Let cool slightly.
  4. Combine the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup milk, 2 large eggs, ¼ cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard until smooth.
  5. Add the dry ingredients: Stir in 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon dried thyme. Let the mixture sit for 2-3 minutes so the breadcrumbs can absorb the liquid.
  6. Add the onion and garlic: Stir in the cooled sautéed onion and garlic (or raw grated onion) until evenly combined.
  7. Add the ground beef: Add 2 pounds of ground beef to the bowl. Use your hands to gently mix everything together, using a light folding motion until just combined. Do not overmix.
  8. Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Press it gently into an even shape, making sure there are no air pockets. Alternatively, shape it into a free-form loaf on the prepared baking sheet. If using a pan, place it on the foil-lined baking sheet to catch drips.
  9. Apply the first layer of glaze: Spread about half of the brown sugar glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.
  10. Bake for 45 minutes: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45 minutes.
  11. Apply the remaining glaze: After 45 minutes, carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the remaining glaze over the top.
  12. Continue baking: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the center.
  13. Rest before slicing: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
  14. Slice and serve: Carefully transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board. Slice into 1-inch thick pieces. Spoon any extra glaze from the pan over the slices. Serve warm.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meat to keep it tender. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness (160°F/71°C). Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to keep it moist. Line the pan with parchment paper or foil for easy removal. The glaze can burn if exposed to high heat too long; tent with foil if needed.

Nutrition

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

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