This meatloaf is a tasty twist on the classic, topped with a sweet brown sugar ketchup glaze. It’s juicy, flavorful, and sure to please the whole family!
Trust me, that glaze is the star of the show. My kids love it so much that I think they would eat just the glaze if they could! 🥄
I enjoy serving this meatloaf with mashed potatoes or steamed veggies. It’s a simple meal, and it’s always a hit at dinner time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using 80/20 ground beef for a juicy meatloaf. If you prefer leaner meat, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but just keep in mind it might be a bit drier.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work great, but you can substitute with panko for a crunchier texture. For gluten-free options, try crushed rice or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Milk: If you’re dairy-free, almond, soy, or oat milk can be great substitutes. Even broth can work here for added flavor.
Ketchup: For a homemade version, mix tomato paste with a bit of vinegar and sugar. BBQ sauce could also work if you want a different flavor twist.
How Do I Keep My Meatloaf Moist and Flavorful?
To keep the meatloaf moist, the key lies in mixing the ingredients just enough. Over-mixing will make it tough. Here are some simple steps:
- Soak the breadcrumbs in milk before adding to the meat mixture. This helps retain moisture.
- Make sure not to pack the meat too tightly. Looser shapes help the loaf cook evenly and remain tender.
- Using an egg helps bind everything without making it too dense.
Let it rest after baking so juices can redistribute; this will help keep every slice juicy and delicious!
Brown Sugar Ketchup Glazed Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (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?
The total cooking time for this meatloaf is about 1 hour and 5 minutes. You’ll spend around 15 minutes on preparation—mixing and shaping the meatloaf—and then it will take 50 minutes to bake. Let it rest for 10 minutes after baking for the best texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking. Grease a loaf pan lightly with cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in the milk. This helps them become soft and keeps the meatloaf moist. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the meat.
3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, the soaked breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if you’re using it. Mix everything together gently until well combined, but don’t over-mix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. You want a nice, even shape so it cooks uniformly.
5. Make the Glaze:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and smoked paprika until it’s nicely blended. This glaze gives the meatloaf its sweet and tangy flavor!
6. Add the Glaze:
Spread about half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will caramelize as it bakes and enhance the flavor.
7. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the loaf pan in the oven, uncovered, and bake for 45 minutes. This allows the meatloaf to get a solid base.
8. Add More Glaze:
After 45 minutes, take the meatloaf out of the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. This adds an extra layer of deliciousness. Return it to the oven.
9. Final Bake:
Continue baking for another 15 minutes. You’re looking for the internal temperature to reach 160°F (71°C). When it’s done, the glaze should look shiny and rich.
10. Rest Before Slicing:
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This step is important because it allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice juicy and flavorful.
11. Serve It Up:
Slice the meatloaf and garnish with some extra chopped parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy with your favorite sides, like creamy mashed potatoes or crunchy steamed vegetables!
Bon appétit! Here’s to a sweet and tangy Brown Sugar Ketchup Glazed Meatloaf that everyone will love!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative. Just keep in mind that turkey tends to be drier, so adding a bit more moisture like an extra egg or a dash of broth can help keep it juicy.
Can I Prepare This Meatloaf in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf the day before. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just add your glaze and bake straight from the fridge—you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave, or for best results, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes.
Can I Freeze Meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze meatloaf before or after cooking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and store it in a freezer-safe container. To bake from frozen, add about 15-20 minutes to the baking time. For a baked meatloaf, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat!
