Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze – Sweet, Tangy & Irresistibly Juicy

There’s nothing more comforting than a homemade meatloaf—especially when it’s topped with a rich, caramelized brown sugar glaze that adds the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. This classic meatloaf recipe is juicy, flavorful, and easy to make, making it the ultimate go-to dinner for busy weeknights or a cozy family meal.

The ground beef is mixed with breadcrumbs, onions, and seasonings, ensuring a tender and moist texture in every bite. The real magic, however, comes from the brown sugar glaze—a simple blend of ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard that bakes into a glossy, sticky coating, elevating this dish to pure comfort food perfection.

This meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad, making it a well-rounded, satisfying meal. It’s also great for leftovers—slice it up for sandwiches or reheat for an easy next-day meal.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Brown Sugar Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp mustard

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, diced onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork the meat to keep it tender.
3. Shape the Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared baking dish.
4. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the meatloaf.
5. Bake: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Halfway through cooking, brush the remaining glaze over the top.
6. Rest & Serve: Once fully cooked (internal temperature 160°F / 71°C), remove from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices for a moist, flavorful meatloaf.
7. Enjoy! Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or your favorite side dishes.

Variations

• Cheesy Meatloaf: Add ½ cup shredded cheddar to the meat mixture for a gooey, cheesy center.
• BBQ Twist: Swap ketchup for BBQ sauce in the glaze for a smoky, tangy kick.
• Spicy Version: Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the glaze for extra heat.
• Turkey Meatloaf: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner alternative.

Tips

• Don’t overmix the meat—it can make the loaf dense. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
• Use a meat thermometer to check doneness—160°F (71°C) is the perfect internal temperature.
• Let it rest before slicing to keep the juices locked in and prevent it from falling apart.
• Make ahead and refrigerate the raw meatloaf mixture for up to 24 hours before baking for an easy prep-ahead meal.

This Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze is the perfect balance of savory and sweet, making it a family favorite that never goes out of style. It’s easy, flavorful, and comforting—just the way homemade meals should be! Give it a try tonight and enjoy a taste of classic home-cooked goodness.