Sweet and Savory Brown Sugar Meatloaf Recipe: A Family Favorite

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s been a staple on dinner tables for generations. This sweet and savory brown sugar meatloaf recipe elevates the traditional dish with a delicious blend of flavors that are sure to satisfy. The balance of sweetness from brown sugar and the rich, savory taste of seasoned beef creates an unforgettable meal that your family will request again and again.

If you’re looking for a foolproof recipe to make this hearty dish, look no further. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be serving up a delicious meatloaf in no time.

Why This Meatloaf Recipe Stands Out

While meatloaf is often thought of as a humble dish, adding brown sugar to the recipe brings a whole new level of flavor. “The combination of sweet and savory is what makes this meatloaf recipe truly special,” explains a home cook who has perfected the dish. The brown sugar caramelizes during baking, creating a sticky glaze that contrasts beautifully with the savory meat and seasonings.

Ingredients for Brown Sugar Meatloaf

To make this sweet and savory meatloaf, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• For the Meatloaf:
  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef
  • 1 small onion (finely chopped)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 eggs
  • ½ cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Brown Sugar Glaze:
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your own sweet and savory brown sugar meatloaf:

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent the meatloaf from sticking.

2. Prepare the Brown Sugar Glaze

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until the ingredients are well blended. Set the glaze aside as you prepare the meatloaf mixture.

3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix the ingredients thoroughly, but be careful not to overmix as this can make the meatloaf dense.

4. Form the Meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Shape it evenly to ensure it cooks uniformly. Gently press the mixture into the pan to eliminate any air pockets.

5. Add the Brown Sugar Glaze

Pour the prepared brown sugar glaze over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface. This glaze will caramelize beautifully during baking, adding a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish.

6. Bake the Meatloaf

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). If the glaze starts to brown too quickly, you can cover the top with aluminum foil halfway through baking.

7. Let It Rest

Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet and savory brown sugar meatloaf pairs beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with roasted potatoes or your favorite pasta for a more filling meal. The combination of the rich meatloaf and the sticky glaze makes every bite a delightful experience.

Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf ingredients can result in a tough, dry texture. Mix the ingredients just until they’re combined for the best results.
• Use Fresh Breadcrumbs: Fresh or homemade breadcrumbs help maintain moisture in the meatloaf, ensuring a tender texture.
• Rest Before Slicing: Always let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This keeps the meatloaf juicy and prevents it from falling apart when you slice it.

Conclusion

This sweet and savory brown sugar meatloaf is the perfect blend of flavors that will leave your family asking for seconds. With its rich, caramelized glaze and tender meat, this recipe takes a classic comfort dish to the next level. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this meatloaf is sure to be a hit.

Try it out, and enjoy a meal that combines the best of both sweet and savory flavors!