This brown sugar meatloaf recipe offers a deliciously sweet twist on a classic dish. The brown sugar glaze provides a caramelized crust, while the meatloaf itself stays wonderfully moist. It's a hearty, satisfying meal that's sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this meatloaf combines the savory richness of ground beef with the sweet tang of a brown sugar and ketchup glaze. The result is a moist, flavorful dish that's both comforting and satisfying. It's easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 ½ lbs ground beef
1 cup milk
¾ cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
¼ cup finely chopped onion
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup brown sugar
¾ cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, milk, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing it in firmly and shaping it into a loaf.
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Spread half of this glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and carefully drain any excess fat. Spread the remaining glaze over the top.
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

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

Variations

Meat Options: I sometimes use a mix of ground beef and pork for added flavor.
Spice It Up: Adding a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the glaze gives it a nice kick.
Cheesy Twist: Mixing in shredded cheddar cheese into the meat mixture adds a delightful cheesy flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, I wrap slices individually and freeze them for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, I place slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.

FAQs

How can I tell when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

I use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), indicating it's fully cooked.

Can I prepare this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the meat mixture and glaze ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake it when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

I've found that crushed saltine crackers or oats work well as substitutes for breadcrumbs.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely, I sometimes use ground turkey for a leaner option, though the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

How do I prevent the meatloaf from falling apart?

Ensuring the right balance of binding ingredients like eggs and breadcrumbs, and not overmixing the meat, helps keep the meatloaf intact.

Conclusion

This brown sugar meatloaf is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a comforting and satisfying meal. I enjoy serving it with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete dinner. It's a recipe that brings warmth and flavor to the table, perfect for any occasion.