Print

Classic Diner-Style Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

Classic Diner-Style Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze - featured image

A nostalgic, tender, and juicy meatloaf featuring a savory beef interior and a sticky, caramelized brown sugar glaze. This easy-to-make comfort food strikes the perfect balance between a firm slice and a moist texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs (900g) 80/20 ground beef
  • 1 cup (100g) plain dry breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (75g) diced yellow onion
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1 tbsp butter (for sautéing onions)
  • 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120g) ketchup
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp yellow mustard

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter.
  2. In a small skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and a pinch of salt; cook for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic in the last minute. Let cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooled onion mixture, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried parsley. Mix gently with hands until just combined; do not overmix.
  4. Transfer mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Press down firmly and smooth the top to be flat, not domed.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and yellow mustard until smooth.
  6. Bake the meatloaf for 30 minutes.
  7. Remove from oven and brush half of the glaze over the top. Return to oven and bake for 15 minutes.
  8. Remove from oven again and brush on the remaining glaze. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  9. Remove from oven and let rest in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to avoid a tough texture. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to retain moisture. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour. For lower carb, use pork rind crumbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, comfort food, diner style, ground beef recipe, easy dinner, meal prep, family friendly