This Brown Sugar Meatloaf brings a delightful balance of savory and sweet, with the perfect glaze topping that adds a touch of warmth and flavor. The tender meat, combined with a slightly caramelized crust, offers a mouthwatering experience in every bite. It’s a classic comfort dish that’s easy to make and will satisfy your whole family. The combination of brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce makes the glaze rich and flavorful, while the ground beef offers a hearty base. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a family gathering, this meatloaf recipe will be a new favorite!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup milk
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1 egg
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1/2 cup brown sugar
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1/4 cup ketchup
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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1/4 cup water
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.
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Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a greased baking dish.
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In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, ketchup, water, and Worcestershire sauce to create the glaze. Pour the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
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Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Brown Sugar Meatloaf: A Comfort Food Favorite
Brown Sugar Meatloaf is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings a comforting touch to any meal. With its rich combination of ground beef, spices, and a brown sugar glaze, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet. Meatloaf is a classic American dish that has been cherished for generations due to its versatility and ease of preparation. Whether served for a family dinner, holiday meal, or simply a weeknight comfort food, this dish has remained a favorite for its simplicity and delicious taste.
A Little History Behind Meatloaf
Meatloaf dates back to the early 19th century, with roots in both European and American cooking traditions. The dish is believed to have originated in Europe, where ground meat was mixed with breadcrumbs, eggs, and other ingredients to create a loaf that could easily feed a large number of people. In the United States, meatloaf became a popular comfort food, especially during the Great Depression when it was used as a budget-friendly meal to stretch the meat further. The addition of sweet ingredients, such as brown sugar and ketchup, came later as cooks experimented with ways to elevate the dish and balance the savory flavors.
Today, meatloaf is a staple in homes across the country, and many variations have emerged over time. From vegetarian versions made with lentils or quinoa to the more traditional beef, pork, and veal combinations, the dish has evolved while staying true to its roots of being affordable, satisfying, and easy to prepare.
Why Brown Sugar Meatloaf is the Best Choice
Brown Sugar Meatloaf is a winning choice for a variety of reasons. This particular recipe stands out due to its unique glaze made from brown sugar and ketchup, which creates a flavorful, caramelized crust. The sweetness of the brown sugar complements the richness of the beef, making each bite irresistibly delicious. Here are some reasons why this Brown Sugar Meatloaf is the perfect choice for your next meal:
Balanced Flavors: The combination of brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and spices gives this meatloaf the perfect balance of sweetness and savory richness. The glaze forms a sticky, slightly caramelized crust, while the interior of the meatloaf remains moist and flavorful.
Versatility: Meatloaf is one of those dishes that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes. You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version, or switch up the spices to add more heat or herbs, depending on your preferences. This Brown Sugar Meatloaf recipe is incredibly versatile and can be customized with different ingredients to fit your dietary needs.
Family-Friendly: This meatloaf recipe is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. The sweet glaze on top makes it more appealing to children, while the depth of flavor in the meatloaf itself ensures that adults will love it too. It’s an excellent dish for a family meal that everyone can enjoy.
Affordable and Easy to Prepare: Brown Sugar Meatloaf is a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t sacrifice on flavor. With just a few simple ingredients like ground beef, breadcrumbs, brown sugar, and ketchup, you can create a delicious meal that will feed the whole family. It’s also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying dinner.
Healthier Options for Brown Sugar Meatloaf
While meatloaf is often considered a comfort food with a reputation for being heavy, there are a few ways to make this recipe healthier without sacrificing flavor. For those looking to cut down on calories or fat, there are several simple substitutions you can make:
Ground Beef Alternatives: If you’re looking to reduce the fat content, you can swap out the ground beef for leaner cuts of meat, such as ground turkey or chicken. Ground beef can sometimes be greasy, but leaner meats provide the same great flavor with less fat.
Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs: For a healthier version, consider using whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Whole wheat breadcrumbs provide more fiber and nutrients, making the meal a bit more wholesome.
Low-Sugar or Sugar-Free Options: While brown sugar is an integral part of this recipe, you can reduce the sugar content by using a sugar substitute or opting for a lower-sugar ketchup. This can make the meatloaf slightly healthier, especially for those who are watching their sugar intake.
Adding Vegetables: For an extra nutritional boost, you can incorporate finely chopped vegetables, such as onions, bell peppers, or carrots, into the meat mixture. This adds fiber and vitamins, while enhancing the flavor of the meatloaf.
How to Make the Perfect Brown Sugar Meatloaf
While the ingredients and process for making Brown Sugar Meatloaf are straightforward, there are a few tips and tricks to ensure that your meatloaf comes out perfectly every time.
1. Use Lean Ground Beef: When selecting your ground beef, opt for a leaner cut, such as 80/20 or 90/10. This will result in a moist meatloaf without being too greasy. If you prefer, you can also use a combination of beef and pork to add flavor and tenderness.
2. Don’t Overmix the Meat Mixture: When mixing the meatloaf ingredients, be sure not to overwork the mixture. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough meatloaf. Mix until the ingredients are just combined, and avoid compacting the mixture too much when shaping the loaf.
3. Create a Well-Glazed Crust: One of the best features of this recipe is the brown sugar glaze that forms a delicious crust on top of the meatloaf. Be sure to pour the glaze over the meatloaf evenly, and if desired, spread it with a spatula to create a smooth layer.
4. Let It Rest: After removing the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf more tender and flavorful.
Tips for Serving Brown Sugar Meatloaf
Brown Sugar Meatloaf is best served with classic sides that complement its rich, savory flavors. Here are a few ideas for what to serve alongside your meatloaf:
Mashed Potatoes: A comforting classic, mashed potatoes pair perfectly with meatloaf. The creamy texture of the potatoes balances the savory richness of the meatloaf, and the combination is unbeatable.
Roasted Vegetables: For a healthier side, roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or green beans make a great pairing with meatloaf. Their slightly caramelized flavors enhance the taste of the dish and add a touch of color to your plate.
Corn on the Cob: Another classic pairing with meatloaf is sweet corn on the cob. Its sweetness pairs well with the savory meatloaf, and it adds a satisfying texture to the meal.
Salad: If you’re looking for something lighter, a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatloaf.
Conclusion
Brown Sugar Meatloaf is a versatile, flavorful, and satisfying dish that has earned its place in the hearts of many home cooks. With its balance of sweet and savory flavors, ease of preparation, and adaptability, it’s no wonder that this dish remains a favorite in kitchens across the country. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting a gathering, this meatloaf will never disappoint. By following the simple tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can create a perfect meatloaf every time, and enjoy the comfort and warmth that this classic dish brings to your table.