Brown Sugar Meatloaf
Brown sugar meatloaf is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner. This recipe combines the savory flavors of lean ground beef, onions, and spices with the sweetness of brown sugar and ketchup glaze. Baked to perfection in the oven, this meatloaf is moist, flavorful, and sure to become a family favorite.
Why Try This Recipe?
- Satisfying Comfort Food: This hearty meatloaf is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like ground beef, bread crumbs, and spices, this recipe is easy to prepare with ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Summary of Ingredients
- Lean ground beef
- Brown sugar
- Ketchup
- Low-fat milk
- Eggs
- Onion
- Ground ginger
- Whole wheat bread crumbs
- Chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper
Directions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat the oven and lightly grease a loaf pan with cooking spray. Press brown sugar into the bottom of the pan, then spread ketchup over the sugar.
- Mix the Meatloaf: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, milk, eggs, salt, pepper, onion, ginger, bread crumbs, and parsley. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Shape and Bake: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared loaf pan on top of the ketchup. Bake in the preheated oven until cooked through, about 1 hour.
- Check for Doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the meatloaf has reached an internal temperature of at least 160 degrees F (70 degrees C) before removing it from the oven.
- Serve: Once cooked through, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve slices of meatloaf with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Brown sugar meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. Serve it alongside your favorite comfort food sides for a satisfying meal.
Storage Information
Any leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until heated through before serving.
Techniques and Tips
- For extra flavor, you can add Worcestershire sauce or garlic powder to the meatloaf mixture.
- Be sure to mix the ingredients gently until just combined to avoid overworking the meat, which can result in a dense texture.
FAQs about Brown Sugar Meatloaf
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe if you prefer a lighter option.
2. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply shape the loaf and bake it when you’re ready to enjoy.
3. Can I freeze leftover meatloaf? Yes, you can freeze cooked meatloaf slices for up to 3 months. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Brown Sugar Meatloaf
Equipment
- - 9x5-inch loaf pan
- - Mixing bowl for combining ingredients
- - Instant-read thermometer for checking doneness
Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
- 3/4 cup low-fat 1% milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 small onion chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 3/4 cup whole wheat bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray.
- Press brown sugar into the bottom of the prepared loaf pan; spread ketchup over the sugar.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, milk, eggs, salt, pepper, onion, ginger, bread crumbs, and parsley. Mix thoroughly.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it into the pan on top of the ketchup.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the meatloaf is no longer pink in the center, about 1 hour. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 160 degrees F (70 degrees C).
- Once cooked through, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked by checking with an instant-read thermometer, aiming for an internal temperature of at least 160°F (70°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving for easier cutting.
