Brown Sugar Meatloaf

Your family will love this exceptionally tender Brown Sugar Meatloaf. It is loaded with the rich flavors of Worcestershire and French onion and painted with a sweet brown sugar glaze! Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this meatloaf stands out with its delicious flavor and moist texture, making it a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal effort, you can create a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy.
• Flavorful Glaze: The sweet brown sugar glaze adds an irresistible touch to each bite.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with mashed potatoes, veggies, or on a sandwich for leftovers!
• Comfort Food Classic: This dish brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table.
• Perfectly Tender: The combination of ingredients ensures a moist and tender meatloaf every time.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Brown Sugar Meatloaf, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help you mix, bake, and serve your delicious creation with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Ensures your meatloaf maintains its shape while baking.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without mess.
• Measuring cups & spoons: Guarantees accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 ounce packet onion soup mix
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 egg (beaten)
• 1 teaspoon table salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup milk

For the Glaze

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar

How to Make Brown Sugar Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture

• Gently crumble the ground beef in a large mixing bowl, breaking it into small pieces.
• Add all remaining meatloaf ingredients to the bowl.
• Carefully combine everything using your hands or a spoon, ensuring not to overwork the meat mixture.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

• In a separate bowl, mix together all sauce ingredients until fully combined.
• Spread half of this sauce along the bottom and sides of a loaf pan.

Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf

• Transfer the meat mixture into the loaf pan.
• Press firmly into a loaf shape to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Add Remaining Sauce

Liberally paint the remaining sauce over the top of your shaped meatloaf for added flavor during baking.

Step 6: Bake in Oven

Place your meatloaf in the preheated oven. Bake for about 1 hour and 10 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

After baking, let your meatloaf rest for five minutes. Then slice it up and serve warm with your favorite sides!

How to Serve Brown Sugar Meatloaf

Serving Brown Sugar Meatloaf can elevate your dining experience and make it even more enjoyable. There are various ways to complement this flavorful dish, enhancing its taste and presentation.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes make a classic pairing with meatloaf, providing a comforting texture that balances the meal.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition, complementing the rich flavors of the meatloaf beautifully.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serving meatloaf on a bed of fresh greens gives a refreshing contrast and adds a healthy touch to your plate.

In a Sandwich

• Leftover meatloaf can be transformed into a delicious sandwich. Layer slices in whole-grain bread with lettuce and tomato for a satisfying lunch.

With Gravy

• A drizzle of homemade or store-bought gravy enhances the moisture and flavor of the meatloaf, making each bite irresistible.

How to Perfect Brown Sugar Meatloaf

To ensure your Brown Sugar Meatloaf turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh breadcrumbs and high-quality ground beef contribute significantly to the overall flavor and texture.
• Don’t overmix: Gently combine the ingredients to avoid a dense meatloaf. Overmixing can lead to tough results.
• Add moisture: Incorporating milk or adding finely chopped vegetables keeps the meatloaf moist during cooking.
• Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165 degrees for safe consumption.
• Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for five minutes after baking helps retain its juices when sliced.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Meatloaf

Pairing side dishes with your Brown Sugar Meatloaf can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic provide comfort and richness, perfect for soaking up any sauce.

2. Steamed Green Beans
   Crisp-tender green beans add a fresh crunch that contrasts nicely with the hearty meatloaf.

3. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn on the cob brings sweetness to the plate, balancing the savory flavors of your main dish.

4. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds brightness and texture, offering a refreshing counterpoint to the savory meat.

5. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes complements the brown sugar glaze beautifully while offering additional nutrients.

6. Cauliflower Rice
   Light and fluffy cauliflower rice is an excellent low-carb alternative that pairs well with meatloaf while keeping your meal healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Brown Sugar Meatloaf, it’s easy to make simple mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Overmixing the meat: Mixing the meat too much can lead to a tough texture. Instead, gently combine ingredients until just mixed.
• Skipping the glaze: The glaze adds flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step; ensure you coat your meatloaf for that sweet finish.
• Not checking the temperature: Relying solely on cooking time may result in undercooked meatloaf. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees.
• Using stale breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs help bind the ingredients better and enhance taste. Make sure your breadcrumbs are fresh for the best results.
• Skipping resting time: Cutting into the meatloaf immediately can cause it to fall apart. Let it rest for at least five minutes before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Brown Sugar Meatloaf in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Brown Sugar Meatloaf

• Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Brown Sugar Meatloaf

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place slices on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat with a little broth or water, covered, for about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Brown Sugar Meatloaf?

Brown Sugar Meatloaf is a savory dish made with ground beef combined with seasonings and topped with a sweet brown sugar glaze, providing a delightful contrast of flavors.

How do I make my Brown Sugar Meatloaf moist?

To keep your Brown Sugar Meatloaf moist, add milk and avoid overmixing the ingredients. Ensuring it’s properly glazed also helps retain moisture during baking.

Can I freeze Brown Sugar Meatloaf before cooking?

Yes! You can prepare your Brown Sugar Meatloaf mixture, shape it into a loaf, wrap it well, and freeze it before baking. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

What can I serve with Brown Sugar Meatloaf?

Brown Sugar Meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. These sides complement its rich flavors perfectly.

How long does Brown Sugar Meatloaf last in the fridge?

Properly stored in an airtight container, Brown Sugar Meatloaf lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

This Brown Sugar Meatloaf is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different herbs or vegetables based on your preference. Try this recipe today and discover how satisfying homemade meatloaf can be!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Brown Sugar Meatloaf

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Brown Sugar Meatloaf, a family favorite that promises to bring warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table. Crafted with tender ground beef, this dish is enhanced with a delightful glaze made from brown sugar, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar. Its rich taste comes from the perfect blend of seasonings, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or fresh vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will adore.

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Ingredients

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• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 ounce packet onion soup mix
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 egg (beaten)
• 1 teaspoon table salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, crumble the ground beef and add breadcrumbs, onion soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, beaten egg, salt, pepper, and milk. Combine gently without overmixing.
3. In another bowl, mix together the glaze ingredients until smooth.
4. Spread half of the glaze mixture on the bottom and sides of a loaf pan.
5. Transfer the meat mixture into the pan and shape it into a loaf. Top with the remaining glaze.
6. Bake for about 1 hour and 10 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
7. Let rest for five minutes before slicing and serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 70 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 295
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 80mg