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Kid-Approved Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

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A moist and flavorful meatloaf with a sticky-sweet brown sugar glaze that caramelizes into a candied crust. This kid-approved recipe uses simple pantry staples and is perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/3 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). Line your loaf pan or baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. If using foil, lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Make the brown sugar glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Set aside.
  3. Soften the breadcrumbs: In your large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup plain breadcrumbs with 1/2 cup whole milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
  4. Cook the aromatics (optional but recommended): In a small skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of oil and sauté the diced onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more. Let it cool slightly.
  5. Mix the meatloaf ingredients: To the bowl with the soaked breadcrumbs, add 2 lbs ground beef, 2 lightly beaten eggs, the cooked (or raw) onion and garlic, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until just combined.
  6. Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan or baking sheet. If using a loaf pan, press it in evenly. If shaping free-form on a baking sheet, form it into a loaf shape about 6 inches long and 4 inches wide. Make sure the top is slightly domed.
  7. Apply the first layer of glaze: Spoon about half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Use a pastry brush or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly.
  8. Bake for 45 minutes: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
  9. Apply the second layer of glaze: Carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spoon the remaining glaze over the top and spread it evenly. Return to the oven.
  10. Bake until done: Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the center. Total baking time is usually 60-65 minutes.
  11. Rest before slicing: Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Use a sharp knife to slice into 1-inch thick pieces.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meat to avoid a dense texture. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to keep it moist. Line your pan for easy cleanup. Double the glaze if you like extra.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, kid-friendly, comfort food, easy dinner, ground beef

Find it online: https://willarecipes.com/kid-approved-old-fashioned-meatloaf-with-brown-sugar-glaze/