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Savory Homemade Meatloaf Recipe with Easy Caramelized Brown Sugar Glaze

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A comforting and flavorful meatloaf featuring a sticky, sweet-savory caramelized brown sugar glaze that transforms this classic dish into a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned; can substitute almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/3 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Mix gently with hands or a spatula until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  4. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared loaf pan or on the baking sheet (about 8×4 inches and 2 inches tall).
  5. In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add brown sugar, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar. Stir constantly for 4-5 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the glaze thickens and becomes glossy.
  6. Brush the caramelized brown sugar glaze generously over the top of the meatloaf.
  7. Bake the meatloaf for 55-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Halfway through baking (around 30 minutes), brush on another layer of glaze.
  8. Remove from oven and let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Use fresh finely chopped onion and garlic for best flavor. Avoid overmixing the meat to keep the meatloaf tender. Caramelize the brown sugar glaze slowly over medium heat to prevent burning. Brushing the glaze twice builds layers of flavor. Let the meatloaf rest before slicing for juicy portions. For crispy edges, bake on a rimmed baking sheet instead of a loaf pan.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, caramelized brown sugar glaze, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, savory meatloaf, homemade meatloaf

Find it online: https://leilameals.com/savory-homemade-meatloaf-recipe-with-easy-caramelized-brown-sugar-glaze/