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Classic Diner-Style Meatloaf with Easy Brown Sugar Glaze

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This classic diner-style meatloaf with brown sugar glaze is tender, juicy, and topped with a sticky, caramelized glaze. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s budget-friendly and perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides.
  2. In a small skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Add the finely diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant. Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. In your large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the breadcrumbs soak up the milk and turn into a thick, pasty mixture (panade).
  4. Add the ground beef, cooled onion mixture, beaten eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using) to the bowl with the panade. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared loaf pan. Press it in gently, making sure there are no air pockets. Shape the top so it’s slightly rounded.
  6. In a small saucepan, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder. Whisk together and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Let it bubble gently for 2-3 minutes, until the sugar is dissolved and the glaze has thickened slightly. Remove from heat.
  7. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
  8. After 45 minutes, carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spoon or brush about half of the brown sugar glaze over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly. Return it to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes.
  9. Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for a full 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, use the parchment paper to lift the meatloaf out of the pan. Slice and serve with the remaining glaze on the side for drizzling.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meat mixture to avoid a tough loaf. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep it moist. Line the pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, classic meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, diner-style meatloaf, comfort food, ground beef recipe, easy dinner

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