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Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze: Best Easy Recipe

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A tender, juicy meatloaf that holds together perfectly, featuring a sticky, savory brown sugar glaze. This easy weeknight dinner uses milk-soaked breadcrumbs for moisture and simple pantry ingredients for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup plain dried breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes until a paste forms.
  3. Heat a teaspoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic in the last minute. Let cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, milk-soaked breadcrumbs, cooked onion and garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with hands or a spatula until just combined; do not overmix.
  5. Transfer mixture to prepared pan or sheet. Shape into a 9-inch loaf. If using a pan, press firmly. If using a sheet, create a ridge around edges to hold juices.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and 1 tsp Dijon mustard.
  7. Brush half of the glaze over the top of the raw meatloaf. Bake for 30 minutes.
  8. Remove from oven and brush remaining glaze over the top. Return to oven and bake for another 20-30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to avoid a tough texture. Letting the loaf rest for 10-15 minutes is crucial for slicing. For a lighter option, use lean ground beef or turkey and reduce brown sugar. Leftovers store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, easy dinner, comfort food, ground beef recipe, weeknight meals, meal prep

Find it online: https://lunafeast.com/classic-meatloaf-with-brown-sugar-glaze-best-easy-recipe/