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Sliced classic American meatloaf topped with glossy brown sugar ketchup glaze on a white platter.
Tiffany

Classic American Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

This Classic American Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze is tender, juicy, and packed with savory flavor. Made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, and simple seasonings, then topped with a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze, it's a comforting homemade dinner that's perfect for family gatherings, weeknight meals, and Veterans Day celebrations
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf

  • 2 lb ground beef 85/15
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1 medium yellow onion finely diced
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme

For the Brown Sugar Glaze

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce

Equipment

  • 1 Large mixing bowl
  • 1 Small mixing bowl
  • 1 9x5-inch loaf pan
  • 1 Baking sheet
  • 1 Meat thermometer
  • 1 Spatula
  • 1 Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper, or lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let the mixture stand for 3–5 minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the liquid.
  3. Add the ground beef, diced onion, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, dried parsley, and thyme.
  4. Gently mix the ingredients with clean hands or a large spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
  5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into an even loaf approximately 9 inches long. Alternatively, press it gently into the prepared loaf pan.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
  7. Spread approximately half of the brown sugar glaze evenly over the meatloaf.
  8. Bake for 40 minutes. Remove the meatloaf briefly from the oven and brush the remaining glaze over the top.
  9. Return the meatloaf to the oven and continue baking for approximately 15–25 minutes, or until the thickest part reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  10. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  11. Cut into 8 portions and serve warm with mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables.

Notes

Recipe Tips
  • Use 85/15 ground beef for a balance of flavor and moisture.
  • Avoid overmixing the meat mixture, which can make the meatloaf dense.
  • Let the breadcrumbs soak in the milk before adding the remaining ingredients.
  • Finely dice the onion so it softens during baking.
  • Apply the brown sugar glaze in two layers for a flavorful finish.
  • Use a meat thermometer to confirm that the center reaches 160°F (71°C).
  • Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Make Ahead: Assemble the meatloaf up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Storage: Refrigerate cooked leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 2–3 months for best quality.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers thoroughly to 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, glazed carrots, or homemade dinner rolls.