Description
A juicy and tender homemade beef meatloaf with a sticky, sweet-savory brown sugar glaze that caramelizes beautifully, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds (680g) ground beef (80/20)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped (about 150g)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup (90g) plain, unseasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup (80ml) milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/3 cup (70g) light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup (80g) ketchup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Optional: 1/2 cup finely grated carrot or zucchini
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Finely chop onion and mince garlic.
- In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk; let soak for a few minutes until soft.
- Add ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried thyme to the soaked breadcrumbs. Gently mix until evenly combined without overmixing.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish or 9×5-inch loaf pan. Shape into a loaf and smooth the top.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
- Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for about 30 minutes, then remove from oven and spread remaining glaze on top.
- Return to oven and bake for another 20-30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and glaze is caramelized.
- Remove from oven and let rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
[‘Use 80/20 ground beef for best fat content to keep meatloaf juicy.’, ‘Soak breadcrumbs in milk to retain moisture and prevent dryness.’, ‘Mix gently to avoid tough meatloaf.’, ‘Apply glaze twice during baking for a sticky, caramelized crust.’, ‘Let meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.’, ‘Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).’, ‘Optional: Add grated carrot or zucchini for extra moisture and nutrition.’, ‘Butter can be added on top after glazing for extra richness.’, ‘For gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.’]
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of meat
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 28
Keywords: beef meatloaf, homemade meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, easy meatloaf, juicy meatloaf, comfort food, family dinner