This meatloaf is a fun twist on a classic! With a sweet and tangy brown sugar ketchup glaze, it brings a smile to every dinner table. It’s moist and full of flavor!
Honestly, I think the glaze could make even cardboard taste good! 😄 I love serving it with mashed potatoes—it just feels like a warm hug on a plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend because it keeps the meatloaf juicy. If you prefer leaner meat, you can use 90/10, but add a bit of olive oil or extra milk to keep it moist.
Onion: Finely chopped yellow or white onions add a great flavor base. If onion isn’t your favorite, try grated zucchini or chopped bell peppers as a mild substitute.
Egg: The egg acts as a binder. For a vegan option, you can use a flaxseed meal (1 tbsp flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) or unsweetened applesauce instead.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness to the glaze. You can substitute it with honey or maple syrup, but remember this may change the flavor profile slightly.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure a Moist Meatloaf?
Moisture is key to a great meatloaf! Begin by soaking the breadcrumbs in milk—a trick that adds flavor and keeps it tender. Be gentle when mixing all ingredients; overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
- Soak breadcrumbs for 5 minutes before mixing.
- Combine ingredients gently—don’t overwork the meat.
- Shape it loosely, keeping some air in for fluffiness.
Following these tips ensures every slice is juicy and flavorful! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Brown Sugar Ketchup Glazed Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (plus extra fresh for garnish if desired)
- 1/2 tsp dried basil (optional)
For the Glaze:
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 3 tbsp brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1/2 tsp mustard (Dijon or yellow)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for making this meatloaf is about 1 hour and 10 minutes. You’ll spend about 15 minutes on prep and about 55 minutes baking time. Plus, don’t forget to let it rest for 10 minutes after baking for the best slicing experience. Easy peasy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is important for getting your meatloaf cooked evenly. You can lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup!
2. Prepare the Bread Crumbs:
In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs with the milk. Let them soak for about 5 minutes. This step helps to keep the meatloaf moist and adds great texture!
3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, mix the ground beef, soaked bread crumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and basil if you’re using it. Make sure to mix gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is just combined—overmixing can lead to a tough meatloaf!
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet. Aim for a nice, even shape for even cooking!
5. Make the Glaze:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and mustard to create your glaze. This mix will give your meatloaf that sweet and tangy finish!
6. Glaze Your Meatloaf:
Spread about half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf before placing it in the oven. This will add flavor and help create a caramelized crust.
7. Bake:
Bake the meatloaf in your preheated oven for 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it as cooking times can vary slightly!
8. Final Glaze and Finish Baking:
After 45 minutes, take the meatloaf out of the oven and brush the remaining glaze on top. Return it to the oven for another 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
9. Rest Before Slicing:
Once done, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape and keep juicy!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if you like, and serve your meatloaf warm. It’s delicious with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables on the side!
Enjoy your sweet and tangy Brown Sugar Ketchup Glazed Meatloaf!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for beef if you prefer a lighter option! Just be aware that turkey can be drier, so consider adding a bit more milk or an extra egg to keep it moist.
Can I Prepare This Meatloaf in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
What Can I Serve With Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with extra ketchup or a tangy BBQ sauce for dipping on the side!
