This old-fashioned brown sugar glazed meatloaf is tender, savory, and finished with a glossy sweet-and-tangy topping. It is an easy comfort-food dinner that brings a warm homemade flavor to the table, especially when served with creamy mashed potatoes and green beans.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The meatloaf stays moist thanks to milk, eggs, and breadcrumbs, while the simple glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Every slice has a rich beefy flavor with a delicious sticky top that makes this recipe a family favorite.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 to 65 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 to 8
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
2 pounds ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 large eggs
½ cup milk
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
For the Brown Sugar Glaze
½ cup ketchup
¼ cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
How to Make Brown Sugar Glazed Meatloaf
Prepare the Pan
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
Mix the Meatloaf
Add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, diced onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika to a large bowl.
Mix gently with clean hands or a spoon just until everything is combined. Do not overmix, because that can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Shape it into an even loaf, leaving a little space around the sides so the heat can circulate.
Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. The brown sugar gives the glaze its deep caramel flavor, while the mustard and vinegar balance the sweetness.
Bake the Meatloaf
Spread about half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Bake uncovered for 40 minutes.
Remove the pan from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for another 15 to 25 minutes, until the center reaches 160°F (71°C).
Rest and Slice
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape and keeps the juices inside every slice.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf
Use ground beef that is not too lean, such as 80/20 or 85/15, for the juiciest result. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little extra breadcrumb. If it feels dry, add one or two tablespoons of milk.
For easier cleanup, bake the meatloaf in a glass or ceramic dish and spoon the glaze around the sides during the last part of cooking. The sauce will thicken and become extra flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this glazed meatloaf with mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, macaroni and cheese, buttered corn, or a fresh green salad. It is also delicious in a sandwich the next day with extra glaze or barbecue sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or in a covered baking dish at 325°F until hot.
You can also freeze cooked slices for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Final Thoughts
Brown sugar glazed meatloaf is simple, hearty, and full of classic homemade flavor. With its tender center and caramelized tangy topping, this is the kind of dinner everyone will want you to make again.