Brown Sugar Meatloaf

 Brown Sugar Meatloaf – A Sweet & Savory Classic

Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, and this Brown Sugar Meatloaf recipe takes it to a whole new level. With a sweet, caramelized brown sugar glaze coating a juicy, flavorful meatloaf, every bite is packed with deliciousness. The balance of savory beef, rich seasonings, and a touch of sweetness makes this dish a guaranteed hit for family dinners, potlucks, or any night you crave a satisfying meal.

Unlike traditional meatloaf recipes, this version starts with a layer of brown sugar and ketchup glaze at the bottom of the pan, which creates a luscious, sticky topping once baked. The meat mixture itself is incredibly moist, tender, and bursting with deep, rich flavor—thanks to a blend of simple yet powerful ingredients.

Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe and uncover the secrets to making the best Brown Sugar Meatloaf you've ever tasted!

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Ingredients & Their Roles

For the Glaze:

½ cup packed brown sugar – Adds a deep caramelized sweetness that balances the savory flavors.

½ cup ketchup – Enhances the glaze with tangy richness and helps create a sticky, glossy finish.

For the Meatloaf:

1 ½ pounds lean ground beef – The base of the dish, providing juicy, meaty flavor. Using lean beef prevents excessive greasiness.

¾ cup milk – Keeps the meatloaf incredibly moist and tender by softening the breadcrumbs.

2 large eggs – Act as a binder, helping the ingredients hold together for a perfect slice.

¾ cup breadcrumbs – Absorb moisture and add structure, preventing the meatloaf from falling apart.

1 small onion, finely chopped – Provides aromatic depth and a slight crunch, enhancing the overall texture.

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Delivers a rich, umami flavor that deepens the savoriness.

1 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.

½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a subtle kick and warmth.

½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional) – Boosts the flavor with a mild garlicky richness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Glaze

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a 9x5-inch loaf pan, sprinkle the packed brown sugar evenly across the bottom.

3. Spread the ketchup over the brown sugar layer, ensuring full coverage. This will become the caramelized glaze when baked.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, milk, eggs, breadcrumbs, onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

5. Using clean hands or a spoon, mix gently but thoroughly. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough meatloaf.

Step 3: Shape & Bake

6. Carefully press the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, on top of the brown sugar glaze.

7. Smooth out the top to ensure even cooking.

8. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 4: Rest & Serve

9. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This helps lock in the juices.

10. Carefully invert the pan onto a serving platter so the brown sugar glaze is on top.

11. Slice and serve warm, allowing everyone to enjoy the sweet, tangy glaze over the tender meatloaf.

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Why This Brown Sugar Meatloaf is a Must-Try

The caramelized brown sugar glaze creates an irresistible sticky-sweet topping.

The meatloaf is ultra-tender due to the perfect ratio of moisture and binders.

Balanced flavors of sweet, savory, and umami make it stand out from classic meatloaf recipes.

Easy to make with pantry staples, making it a go-to meal any night of the week.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf

✔ Use lean ground beef (85% lean) to avoid excessive grease while keeping the meatloaf juicy.

✔ Finely chop the onion to ensure even distribution and prevent large chunks in each bite.

✔ Let the meatloaf rest before slicing—this keeps it from crumbling and allows the juices to redistribute.

✔ Invert the pan carefully for the best presentation and to keep the glaze intact.

✔ Don’t overmix the meat mixture, as it can lead to a tough texture.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair your Brown Sugar Meatloaf with these delicious sides for a complete meal:

Creamy Mashed Potatoes – A classic, buttery side that soaks up the rich glaze.

Roasted Vegetables – Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans add a fresh, healthy balance.

Mac & Cheese – Indulgent and cheesy, making for an ultra-comforting dinner.

Buttery Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up any extra glaze.

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Final Thoughts

This Brown Sugar Meatloaf is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—sweet, savory, and incredibly tender with a mouthwatering caramelized glaze. The simple ingredients come together effortlessly, making it an easy yet impressive main course. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe delivers flavor, texture, and comfort in every bite.

Try this recipe today and enjoy the perfect combination of sweet and savory goodness! Let us know how it turns out in the comments below.