This meatloaf gets a sweet twist with a delicious brown sugar ketchup glaze. It’s moist on the inside and has a nice caramelized topping that everyone will love!
I mean, who doesn’t enjoy a little extra sweetness in their dinner? Sometimes I even add some mashed potatoes on the side—comfort food at its best! 😋
What I really appreciate is how easy it is to mix the ingredients together. Just throw it into the oven and let it do its thing, while you enjoy a well-deserved break!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80% lean ground beef gives the meatloaf a good balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for lower fat, try ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind they can dry out, so consider adding a bit more milk or olive oil.
Breadcrumbs: These are essential for holding the meatloaf together. If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats can work as good substitutes. They also add a unique texture!
Ketchup: This gives the glaze its signature sweetness and tang. If you want something different, try barbecue sauce or a homemade tomato sauce with a bit of honey mixed in. It will still provide that yummy glaze effect.
Brown Sugar: Adds that caramelized sweetness. If you want to reduce sugar, you could use a sugar alternative like maple syrup, or coconut sugar. Taste can vary, so add a little less at first and adjust to your liking!
How Do You Ensure Your Meatloaf is Moist and Flavorful?
One of the biggest challenges with meatloaf is keeping it moist. Here are some tips to help:
- Use a gentle hand when mixing the ingredients. Over-mixing can lead to a dense loaf.
- Add milk and a large egg; these ingredients help bind moisture into the mixture.
- Form the loaf so it’s not too thick, allowing it to cook evenly.
- Rest the meatloaf after baking; this helps redistribute the juices for extra tenderness.
Using these techniques, you should end up with a juicy, flavorful meatloaf everyone will love!
Brown Sugar Ketchup Glazed Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour total cooking time. You’ll need 45 minutes for the first bake, and a quick 15 minutes after adding the glaze. Don’t forget to let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing—it helps keep it juicy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an important step for evenly cooking your meatloaf!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using). Gently mix everything together until it’s well combined, but don’t overdo it—you want a tender meatloaf.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Now, shape the mixture into a loaf that’s about 8 inches long. Place it on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan. This helps the meatloaf maintain its shape while baking.
4. Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup and brown sugar until smooth. This glaze will add a sweet and tangy finish to your meatloaf!
5. Add the Glaze:
Spread about half of the ketchup glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf before popping it into the oven.
6. Bake:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen!
7. Add More Glaze:
After 45 minutes, take the meatloaf out of the oven. Spread the remaining glaze over the top, making it nice and shiny.
8. Finish Baking:
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). This ensures it’s cooked through but still moist!
9. Rest and Serve:
Once done, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices settle. After resting, slice it up! You can garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Enjoy your sweet and tangy brown sugar ketchup glazed meatloaf! It’s comfort food at its finest!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit drier, so adding a little extra milk or olive oil can help maintain moisture in the meatloaf.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
After allowing the meatloaf to cool, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Without Breadcrumbs?
Yes! If you’re out of breadcrumbs, try using crushed crackers, oatmeal, or even cooked rice as substitutes. They all help bind the meatloaf together while adding their unique flavors.
How Can I Tell When the Meatloaf is Done?
The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption. If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure the meatloaf is no longer pink in the center, and the juices run clear.
