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Best Classic Southern Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

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This tender, juicy meatloaf features a sweet-savory brown sugar glaze that caramelizes into a sticky crust. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for Sunday dinners or busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. Make the brown sugar glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar, 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Prepare the onion: Finely dice 1 medium yellow onion. For extra moisture, grate half of it on a box grater and leave the other half diced.
  4. Combine the wet ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 lightly beaten eggs, 1/2 cup whole milk, and 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce. Set aside.
  5. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup plain breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (if using). Stir to distribute the spices evenly.
  6. Add the ground beef: Place 2 pounds of ground beef (80/20) in the bowl with the breadcrumb mixture. Add the diced onion and the wet ingredient mixture. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until just combined. Do not overmix.
  7. Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to your prepared loaf pan or baking sheet. If using a baking sheet, shape it into a loaf about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. Make a slight indentation down the center.
  8. Apply the glaze: Pour about half of the brown sugar glaze over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.
  9. Bake for 45 minutes: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
  10. Apply the remaining glaze: After 45 minutes, carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven and spoon the remaining glaze over the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  11. Rest before slicing: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
  12. Slice and serve: Use a sharp knife to cut the meatloaf into 1-inch thick slices. Spoon any extra glaze from the pan over the slices. Serve warm.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meat; use a light hand. Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to keep it moist. For extra flavor, toast the breadcrumbs first. Double the glaze for extra caramelization.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, southern meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, comfort food, ground beef, easy dinner

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