This meatloaf is topped with a sweet brown sugar ketchup glaze that makes each slice a treat! It’s tender, juicy, and so comforting—perfect for family dinners or just a cozy night in.
Honestly, the glaze is like a warm hug on a plate. I can’t help but sneak extra pieces when no one is watching! It’s so easy to whip up, just mix, shape, bake, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean beef for a juicy meatloaf. If you prefer a healthier option, you can swap it with ground turkey or chicken. Just note that it might be less moist, so adding a bit more milk might help.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the ingredients together. If you’re gluten-free, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes instead. I’ve used crushed crackers when I ran out of breadcrumbs, and it turned out great!
Onions: Fresh onions add flavor. For a milder taste, you could use shallots instead. If you’re short on time, dried onion flakes also work in a pinch, just rehydrate them in the milk first for the best results.
Ketchup: The base for the glaze, ketchup is sweet and tangy. If you want to reduce sugar, consider using low-sugar ketchup or homemade tomato sauce instead. I sometimes mix in a bit of BBQ sauce for a fun twist.
How Do You Get the Meatloaf to Stay Moist and Not Crumble?
One of the biggest challenges with meatloaf is keeping it moist without falling apart. Here are a few tips to make sure yours turns out just right:
- Mix gently: Combine your ingredients without overmixing. This helps prevent a dense texture.
- Use moisture-rich ingredients: Milk, egg, and even finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers can add moisture.
- Shape properly: Don’t pack the meat mixture too tightly. A loosely formed loaf allows steam to circulate and keeps it juicy.
- Rest before slicing: Allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking helps redistribute the juices, making each slice more flavorful and less prone to crumbling.
Brown Sugar Ketchup Glazed Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meatloaf recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 1 hour of baking time, making it a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This includes some time for the meatloaf to rest before slicing, so it’s juicy and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using a loaf pan, lightly grease it or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme if you’re using it. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything gently until it’s just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or your meatloaf could end up tough!
3. Shape and Place the Meatloaf:
Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in your greased loaf pan or on the prepared baking sheet. This helps it cook evenly while also giving it a great shape.
4. Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and smoked paprika (if using). This sweet and tangy glaze will give your meatloaf delicious flavor!
5. Apply the Glaze:
Spread about half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Save the other half for later—it’ll be added during the final baking time!
6. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place your meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. The kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Add More Glaze:
After 45 minutes, take the meatloaf out of the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. This extra layer will caramelize beautifully.
8. Finish Baking:
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
9. Let It Rest:
Once it’s done, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps keep all the yummy juices inside.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the meatloaf and serve it warm, spooning any extra glaze from the pan over the slices. Add some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme on top for an extra touch if you want!
Enjoy your moist, flavorful meatloaf with that irresistible sweet and tangy brown sugar ketchup glaze!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a healthier alternative and works well in meatloaf. Just be aware it might be a bit drier, so consider adding a splash more milk or an extra egg to keep it moist.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. You can also slice it and freeze leftovers for up to 3 months!
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Just prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What Can I Serve with Meatloaf?
Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. You can also enjoy it in a sandwich the next day with a slice of bread and your favorite toppings!
