Prepare to transform an ordinary dinner into a mouth-watering experience that will have your family begging for seconds! This Classic Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze isn't just another recipe—it's a culinary masterpiece that combines the rich, savory flavors of perfectly seasoned ground beef with a sweet and tangy glaze that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you're a cooking novice or a seasoned home chef, this foolproof recipe promises to deliver comfort food at its absolute finest.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 onion, diced
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your meatloaf cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 lbs of ground beef, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1 diced onion, and 1/2 cup of milk. Use your hands or a spatula to mix the ingredients until they are well combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. You can start with about 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, adjusting to your preference.
- Once the meat mixture is well combined, transfer it to a loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, making sure to create a smooth top and even sides. This will help it cook evenly and look nice when served.
- In a separate small bowl, prepare the glaze by mixing together 1/2 cup of ketchup, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of mustard. Stir until the ingredients are well blended.
- Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf, using a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure it covers the surface completely.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour. The internal temperature of the meatloaf should reach 160°F (70°C) when it is fully cooked.
- Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf easier to slice.
- After resting, slice the meatloaf into portions and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious classic meatloaf with brown sugar glaze!
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality ground beef with a fat content around 80/20 for the most flavorful and juicy meatloaf.
- Don't overmix the meat mixture—this can make your meatloaf tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
- For extra moisture, try soaking your breadcrumbs in milk for a few minutes before adding them to the meat mixture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatloaf reaches the safe internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and delicious.
- For a crispy glaze, consider broiling the meatloaf for 2-3 minutes after baking to caramelize the top.
- Experiment with the glaze by adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 100mg