Introduction:
Brown Sugar Meatloaf is a delicious twist on the classic comfort food. The addition of brown sugar creates a sweet, caramelized glaze that pairs perfectly with the savory meat, making it a family favorite for dinner. This dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it an ideal choice for weeknight meals or special gatherings.
Ingredients:
- For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- Optional: 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, ketchup, mustard, and apple cider vinegar (if using). Mix well until smooth. Set aside.
- Mix the Meatloaf:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, milk, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, bell pepper, beaten eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Form the Meatloaf:
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan or shape it by hand and place it on a lined baking sheet.
- Add the Glaze:
- Pour the prepared glaze over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Bake the Meatloaf:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Rest and Serve:
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and makes for cleaner slices.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for Success:
- For a moister meatloaf, avoid overmixing the meat mixture as it can make the meatloaf dense.
- To ensure even cooking, shape the meatloaf evenly with a uniform thickness.
- If you prefer a spicier glaze, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the glaze mixture.
Recommendation:
Brown Sugar Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh garden salad. The sweet glaze also complements roasted vegetables or a side of buttered corn. This dish also makes excellent leftovers, perfect for meatloaf sandwiches the next day.
Enjoy the rich, savory-sweet flavors of this Brown Sugar Meatloaf, a delightful take on a timeless favorite that will surely become a staple in your home-cooked meal rotation!
