Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

Introduction

Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze is a timeless comfort food dish that combines savory, tender meatloaf with a sweet and tangy caramelized glaze. This recipe takes the traditional meatloaf to the next level by balancing the richness of the beef with a glossy topping made of brown sugar, ketchup, and a hint of tangy vinegar.

The aroma of this meatloaf baking in the oven will fill your kitchen with warmth and anticipation. The glaze not only makes it visually irresistible but also locks in moisture, ensuring each bite is juicy, flavorful, and satisfying.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it captures everything I want in comfort food: simplicity, flavor, and nostalgia. The brown sugar glaze is the highlight—it creates a slightly sticky, caramelized finish that contrasts beautifully with the savory meat. It’s also a recipe that feels both homestyle and special, perfect for family dinners or even casual entertaining.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Perfect Balance of Flavors: Sweet, tangy glaze paired with savory beef.
• Moist & Tender: No dry meatloaf here—the glaze and ingredients keep it juicy.
• Family-Friendly: A dish loved by kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for prepping in advance and reheating.
• Classic with a Twist: Traditional meatloaf but with an irresistible glaze.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: ~380–420 per serving

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Main Course, Dinner

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)

For the Brown Sugar Glaze:

• 1/3 cup ketchup
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Mix meatloaf ingredients and shape into a loaf.
2. Stir glaze ingredients together.
3. Spread half the glaze over the loaf, bake, then finish with remaining glaze.
4. Bake until cooked through, rest, and serve.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Meatloaf Base: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—don’t overmix.
3. Shape the Loaf: Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or form into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
5. Apply Glaze (First Layer): Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake: Place in oven and bake for 45 minutes.
7. Glaze Again: Remove meatloaf from oven, spread remaining glaze on top, and return to oven.
8. Finish Baking: Bake for another 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
9. Rest & Slice: Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it stay moist and hold shape.

How to Serve

• Slice into thick pieces and serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or green beans.
• Pair with a crisp side salad to balance the richness.
• Leftovers make delicious meatloaf sandwiches the next day.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use 80/20 ground beef for the juiciest meatloaf.
• Don’t overmix—this can make the meatloaf dense.
• Let it rest before slicing to prevent crumbling.
• For extra flavor, sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the mixture.
• Place meatloaf on a baking sheet rather than a pan for caramelized edges.

Variations

• Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey for beef for a lighter version.
• Cheesy Meatloaf: Add 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella into the mixture.
• BBQ Twist: Swap ketchup for barbecue sauce in the glaze.
• Vegetable Boost: Mix in grated carrots, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the glaze.

Freezing & Storage

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing (Uncooked): Shape loaf (without glaze), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in fridge overnight before baking.
• Freezing (Cooked): Cool completely, slice, and wrap portions individually. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, or microwave gently.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Loaf pan or rimmed baking sheet
• Small bowl (for glaze)
• Meat thermometer (recommended)

Conclusion

Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze is the ultimate comfort food classic, bringing together savory beef and a caramelized sweet-tangy topping that makes every bite irresistible. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for Sunday meals with family. With its juicy texture, flavorful glaze, and versatility, this meatloaf will become a recipe you return to again and again.