Dinner

Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe

Byluca Carter October 26, 2025October 26, 2025

Introduction

This classic meatloaf recipe features a savory blend of ground beef and seasonings, topped with a sweet and tangy brown sugar glaze. It makes for a comforting and hearty dinner that’s sure to please the whole family.

A close-up of a rectangular meatloaf slice on a white plate, showing a dense, moist inside texture made of ground meat with small bits of seasoning. The top layer is covered with a thick, shiny brown glaze that drips slightly down the sides, giving it a sticky and rich look. The meatloaf has a slightly crumbly edge where it was cut, and the white marbled surface beneath the plate adds a clean contrast. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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

1/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for glaze)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Step 2: Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 3: In a small saucepan, mix the brown sugar, 1/2 cup ketchup, Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce for the glaze. Heat gently until the glaze is smooth and combined.
Step 4: Spoon half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
Step 5: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 6: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and makes for easier slicing. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, soak your breadcrumbs in milk for a few minutes before mixing them into the beef.
Try adding finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots to the mixture for added texture and nutrition.

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of this meatloaf.
Adjust the glaze sweetness by reducing the brown sugar or adding a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra tang.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice and warm pieces in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up of a meatloaf slice on a white plate, with a rich dark brown glaze sauce dripping down the textured, cooked ground meat. The meatloaf has a dense, crumbly texture with small bits visible inside. The sauce is shiny and smooth, covering the top and slightly running down the sides. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and shape the loaf a day ahead. Cover and refrigerate it, then add the glaze and bake just before serving.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

The best way to check doneness is with a meat thermometer inserted into the center. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked.