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Sweet and Savory Brown Sugar Meatloaf Recipes for Comfort Food Lovers - Easy, Cozy, and Crowd-Pleasing

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Ground beef (80/20) – About 2 pounds for tender, juicy texture.
  • Brown sugar – 1/2 cup, divided for glaze and a light layer in the pan.
  • Ketchup – 1/2 cup for the glaze and a bit inside the loaf.
  • Worcestershire sauce – 1 to 2 tablespoons for umami.
  • Dijon mustard – 1 tablespoon for tang and balance.
  • Eggs – 2 large, to bind the mixture.
  • Milk – 1/3 cup, to moisten the breadcrumbs.
  • Breadcrumbs – 1 cup plain or panko for structure.
  • Onion – 1 small, finely minced or grated.
  • Garlic – 2 cloves, minced (optional but great).
  • Salt and black pepper – About 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1 teaspoon pepper, to taste.
  • Smoked paprika – 1 teaspoon for gentle smokiness (optional).
  • Apple cider vinegar – 1 teaspoon in the glaze for brightness.
  • Oil or nonstick spray – For preparing the pan.

Instructions
 

  • Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or lightly grease a loaf pan. If using a loaf pan, sprinkle 1 to 2 tablespoons of brown sugar on the bottom for extra caramelization.
  • Make the glaze: In a small bowl, mix 1/3 cup brown sugar, ketchup, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, Dijon, and vinegar. Set aside.
  • Soften the aromatics: If you prefer a milder onion bite, sauté the minced onion and garlic in a teaspoon of oil for 3 to 4 minutes until soft. Cool slightly.
  • Build the base: In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, remaining 3 tablespoons ketchup (if using), Worcestershire, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir in breadcrumbs to hydrate.
  • Add the beef: Gently fold in the ground beef and onions until just combined. Do not overmix or the meatloaf can turn dense.
  • Shape the loaf: Transfer the mixture to your pan or baking sheet and shape it into a loaf about 8 to 9 inches long. Create a shallow trench on top so the glaze stays put.
  • Glaze generously: Spoon half the glaze over the top and sides. Reserve the rest for later.
  • Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 45 minutes. Remove, brush with remaining glaze, and return to the oven.
  • Finish cooking: Continue baking 15 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Total bake time is typically 60 to 70 minutes, depending on thickness and your oven.
  • Rest and slice: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes to hold its shape. Slice with a sharp knife and serve warm.