Tender, juicy meatloaf topped with a sweet, tangy brown sugar glaze—this is the Classic Meatloaf Recipe that feels like home.
Servings: 6
Introduction
Few things are as comforting as a slice of warm, flavorful meatloaf fresh from the oven. This Tasty Meatloaf Recipe takes the classic diner-style approach with a sweet and tangy brown sugar glaze that perfectly complements the savory meat. Whether you’re looking for a Good Meatloaf Recipe to add to your collection or want to recreate the nostalgia of a Homemade Meatloaf from your mom’s old recipe box, this recipe has you covered. It’s the ultimate family meal—simple, satisfying, and downright delicious meatloaf at its best.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Brown Sugar Glaze:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Supplies Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan (or baking sheet for free-form meatloaf)
- Whisk
- Silicone brush
Instructions
Prepare the Meatloaf:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix gently until just combined (don’t overwork the meat).
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared loaf pan or on the baking sheet.
Make the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
- Brush half of the glaze evenly over the meatloaf. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.
Bake:
- Bake the meatloaf for 40 minutes, then remove it from the oven and brush on the remaining glaze.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 325°F or in the microwave for convenience.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices or the whole meatloaf in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen at 350°F for 20-30 minutes.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Perfect Texture: Soaking the breadcrumbs in milk before mixing ensures a moist, tender meatloaf every time.
- Double the Glaze: If you’re a glaze lover, make extra to serve as a dipping sauce.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the meatloaf mixture and glaze the night before. Store in the fridge, then bake fresh the next day.
- Customize Your Flavors: Swap the thyme for Italian seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy twist.
- Keep It Simple: Free-form the loaf on a baking sheet for quicker cleanup and a crispier exterior.
Variations
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Add a layer of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the center of the loaf before baking for a gooey surprise.
- Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version of this Classic Meatloaf Recipe.
- Vegetable-Loaded Meatloaf: Mix in finely grated carrots or zucchini for added moisture and nutrition.
- BBQ Glaze: Replace the brown sugar glaze with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy twist.
- Mini Meatloaves: Divide the mixture into muffin tins for individual portions that are perfect for meal prep.
FAQ
Q: Can I use ground pork or turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes! Ground pork or turkey can be used, but the flavor and texture will vary slightly.
Q: How can I prevent the meatloaf from falling apart?
A: Make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly without overworking the meat. Letting the loaf rest after baking also helps it hold its shape.
Q: Can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients, like ketchup and Worcestershire sauce, are gluten-free.
Q: What sides go well with this meatloaf?
A: Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and crusty bread are classic pairings for this Delicious Meatloaf.
Q: Can I cook this recipe without a loaf pan?
A: Yes! Shape the loaf directly on a parchment-lined baking sheet for a free-form meatloaf.
Classic Diner Style Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef 80/20 blend for best flavor
- 1 small onion finely diced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Brown Sugar Glaze:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
Prepare the Meatloaf:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix gently until just combined (don’t overwork the meat).
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared loaf pan or on the baking sheet.
Make the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
- Brush half of the glaze evenly over the meatloaf. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.
Bake:
- Bake the meatloaf for 40 minutes, then remove it from the oven and brush on the remaining glaze.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.