This meatloaf has a tasty brown sugar ketchup glaze that makes it sweet and tangy! With ground meat, breadcrumbs, and spices, it’s a go-to comfort food.
Just imagine that glaze bubbling up while it cooks—yummy! I love serving it with mashed potatoes for a cozy dinner. Who doesn’t enjoy a good meatloaf day? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer using 80% lean ground beef for a nice balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use ground turkey or chicken instead, but keep in mind they may be leaner and require careful cooking to avoid dryness.
Breadcrumbs: Plain or seasoned breadcrumbs work well in this recipe. If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, oatmeal, or even cooked rice can be a great substitute. Just remember, different fillers can affect the texture!
Ketchup: Ketchup serves as the base for the glaze. If you’re looking for a different flavor, BBQ sauce can be a fun twist, or try a homemade version with tomato sauce and a bit of vinegar and brown sugar.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic really boost the flavor. If you’re in a pinch, onion powder and garlic powder can be used instead—just reduce the amounts to about a teaspoon each.
How Do You Ensure a Moist Meatloaf?
To prevent dry meatloaf, using soaked breadcrumbs is key. They hold onto moisture, making the final dish juicy. Here’s how to keep it moist:
- Soak the breadcrumbs in milk as described; this step is crucial!
- Don’t overmix the meat. Just combine till everything is mixed well.
- Adding ingredients like Worcestershire sauce contributes to moisture and flavor.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking. This allows juices to redistribute.
By following these tips, your meatloaf will turn out tender and flavorful every time!
Brown Sugar Ketchup Glazed Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup ketchup (divided)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, followed by about 1 hour of cooking time. Overall, you’ll need about 1 hour and 15 minutes before this delicious meatloaf is ready to be enjoyed!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gets the oven ready for the meatloaf to bake perfectly.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in the milk. Let them sit for a few minutes to absorb the liquid, which helps keep the meatloaf moist.
3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon until well combined, making sure not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Press the meat mixture evenly into a greased loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a lined baking sheet. Make sure it’s compact but not too tight.
5. Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, combine 2/3 cup of ketchup with the brown sugar. Stir well until the sugar is mostly dissolved and the glaze is smooth.
6. Apply the Glaze:
Spread about half of the brown sugar ketchup glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will caramelize while it bakes, adding flavor!
7. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. This gives it time to cook through and take on that comforting meatloaf texture.
8. Final Glaze & Additional Baking:
After 45 minutes, take the meatloaf out of the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the glaze is bubbly and slightly caramelized.
9. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Slice the meatloaf and serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a comforting meal!
Enjoy the sweet and tangy flavor of this classic meatloaf recipe!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lower-fat alternative. Just be mindful that turkey can be drier than beef, so be sure to add a little more moisture if needed, like an extra splash of milk or an additional egg.
How Should I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a little ketchup or sauce on top for extra moisture.
Can I Freeze Meatloaf?
Yes! You can freeze the meatloaf before or after baking. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes for Meatloaf?
Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, green beans, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with macaroni and cheese or roasted potatoes!
