Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Dinner

Great for holiday dinners or weekend family meals, this Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Dinner is a delightful combination of juicy beef and a sweet, savory glaze. It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests. This dish stands out not just for its flavor but also for its comforting nature, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy family nights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and ketchup gives this meatloaf a unique sweetness that balances perfectly with the savory beef.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is easy for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Meal: Ideal for holidays or casual dinners, it pairs well with various sides like mashed potatoes or green beans.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the meatloaf in advance and bake it when ready to serve, saving you time on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Dinner smoothly, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Loaf pan or baking sheet
• Small saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and chopping board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all the ingredients easily without spills.
• Loaf pan or baking sheet: Using a loaf pan helps maintain the shape of the meatloaf while it bakes.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for heating the glaze ingredients quickly and efficiently before adding them to the meatloaf.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 eggs
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Glaze

• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for glaze)

How to Make Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Dinner

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf starts cooking at the right temperature.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Shape the mixture into a loaf form:
– Place it in a greased loaf pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This will help it hold its shape during baking.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

In a small saucepan:
– Combine brown sugar, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
– Heat over low heat until smooth. Stir continuously to prevent burning.

Step 5: Bake with Half Glaze

Spoon half of the prepared glaze over your meatloaf:
– Bake in preheated oven for about 40 minutes.

Step 6: Add Remaining Glaze

After the initial baking time:
– Spoon the remaining glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
– Bake for an additional 15–20 minutes or until its internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Once done:
– Let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture and makes serving easier.

Enjoy this comforting Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Dinner as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Dinner

Serving meatloaf with a brown sugar glaze is a delightful way to elevate your family dinner. This dish pairs well with various sides and beverages, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Classic Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes complement the savory flavor of the meatloaf. Add a touch of butter and milk for richness.

Steamed Green Beans

• Fresh steamed green beans add a crisp texture and vibrant color to your plate. A sprinkle of salt enhances their natural taste.

Roasted Carrots

• Sweet, caramelized roasted carrots provide a lovely balance to the savory meatloaf. Toss them with olive oil and herbs before roasting.

Garden Salad

• A light garden salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty meatloaf.

Garlic Bread

• Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover glaze on your plate. It’s an easy addition that everyone loves.

Homemade Coleslaw

• Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, helping to cut through the richness of the meatloaf.

How to Perfect Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Dinner

To achieve the best meatloaf experience, consider these helpful tips that can enhance flavor and texture.

• Choose quality beef: Using fresh ground beef will improve the overall taste of your meatloaf.
• Don’t overmix: Gently combine ingredients to avoid a dense texture; overmixing can lead to tough meatloaf.
• Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking helps juices redistribute, making each slice juicy.
• Use a thermometer: Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safe consumption.
• Experiment with spices: Adding herbs or spices can elevate flavors; try Italian seasoning or smoked paprika for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Dinner

Pairing sides with your meatloaf creates a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Creamed Spinach: Rich and creamy, this dish brings a luxurious feel that complements the savory loaf.
2. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with sour cream or chives, providing comforting simplicity.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is always a favorite; serve it grilled or boiled for added sweetness.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy macaroni and cheese adds indulgence and pairs wonderfully with glazed dishes.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad filled with veggies offers a healthy option that balances heartiness with freshness.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring depth of flavor, especially when drizzled with balsamic reduction.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch, enhancing your meal’s texture profile.
8. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice provides a light base that soaks up flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making meatloaf can be a simple task, but common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly Overmixing: Mixing the ingredients too much can make your meatloaf tough. Stir just until everything is combined.
• Ignoring Temperature: Not preheating the oven can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat before baking.
• Skipping the Glaze: Omitting the glaze misses out on flavor and moisture. Don’t skip it—brush it on for that sweet finish.
• Wrong Meat Choice: Using lean meat might result in a dry loaf. Opt for ground beef with some fat content for juiciness.
• Neglecting Rest Time: Cutting into the meatloaf too soon can lead to juices running out. Allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Dinner

• Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Dinner

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place the meatloaf in a baking dish, and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Slice portions and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 1-minute intervals until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water, and cover until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Dinner.

How long does Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Dinner take to cook?

The total cooking time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including prep and baking time.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that will still provide a delicious flavor when making meatloaf.

What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?

You can use crushed crackers or oats as substitutes if you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with lentils or chickpeas mixed with vegetables and binders like egg or plant-based alternatives.

Final Thoughts

This Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Dinner is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it by adding herbs or veggies, making it your own! Try this delightful recipe today!

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Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Dinner

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of our Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Dinner. This classic dish combines juicy ground beef with a delectable sweet-savory glaze that elevates your family meals and gatherings. Easy to prepare, this meatloaf is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With straightforward steps and common ingredients, even novice cooks can impress their loved ones with this hearty recipe. Pair it with your favorite sides, like creamy mashed potatoes or fresh green beans, for a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 eggs
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf form and place it in a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. For the glaze, heat brown sugar, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a small saucepan until smooth.
5. Spoon half the glaze over the meatloaf and bake for about 40 minutes.
6. Add the remaining glaze on top and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg