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Cozy Brown Sugar Glazed Meatloaf Recipe with Tangy Ketchup

brown sugar glazed meatloaf - featured image

This cozy brown sugar glazed meatloaf recipe with tangy ketchup topping is a happy accident that became a permanent fixture in my kitchen. The tangy ketchup mixed into the meat keeps every bite moist and flavorful, while the brown sugar glaze forms a gorgeous, crackly top.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic. Optionally, sauté in a small pan with a teaspoon of oil for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk, beaten egg, ketchup, and sautéed (or raw) onion and garlic. Whisk together.
  4. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and dried thyme over the wet mixture. Stir until it forms a thick, pasty panade.
  5. Add the ground beef to the bowl. Using your hands, gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Transfer the meat mixture to the greased loaf pan. Gently press into an even shape, slightly domed in the center.
  7. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
  8. Pour about half of the glaze over the meatloaf, spreading evenly. Reserve the remaining glaze.
  9. Place the loaf pan on a baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes. Remove from oven, spoon remaining glaze over the top, and bake for another 15-20 minutes (total 60-65 minutes).
  10. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F (71°C) in the center.
  11. Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Use a spatula to lift it out onto a cutting board, then slice.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meat to avoid a dense texture. Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to keep it moist. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. Line the pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Toast breadcrumbs for extra flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, ketchup, comfort food, easy dinner, ground beef