This article walks you through why this meatloaf wins hearts fast, how to make it step by step, handy tweaks, answers to your top questions, and a satisfying conclusion. Let’s bring on the sweet‑savory magic.
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What Makes Brown Sugar Glazed Meatloaf a Crowd Favorite
This meatloaf nails the balance between savory and sweet—rich beef flavor meets that golden, caramelized brown sugar glaze. It’s the kind of dish that earns smiles before anyone takes a bite. The caramel top stays sticky and flavorful, while the inside stays juicy. I’ve served this one on busy weeknights and family gatherings—and it never fails to disappear fast. It’s just as comforting as Grandma’s Secret Meatloaf, but with a sweet twist that gets everyone talking.
Sweet and savory make a perfect pair, and this glaze brings simplicity with that special “wow” factor. When I want heartwarming flavor with a twist, but no extra steps, this is my go-to meal.
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Brown Sugar Glazed Meatloaf
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4–5 servings
Description
This brown sugar glazed meatloaf delivers savory beef and a sticky sweet topping that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. A comfort food favorite that’s moist, flavorful, and made with everyday ingredients.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
1 large egg, beaten
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup brown sugar (for glaze)
1/4 cup ketchup (for glaze)
1 tsp mustard (optional, for glaze)
Salt, pepper, garlic or onion powder to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line or lightly grease a loaf pan.
3. In a bowl, mix ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, and seasoning.
4. Press mixture evenly into loaf pan.
5. Mix brown sugar, ketchup, and mustard for glaze.
6. Spread glaze over top of meatloaf.
7. Bake 30–35 minutes, then add more glaze and bake another 10–15 minutes until internal temp reaches 160°F.
8. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Use foil in the loaf pan for easier cleanup.
Resting the meatloaf after baking helps juices settle for clean slices.
Glaze can be doubled if you love a saucier top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: brown sugar glazed meatloaf, sweet meatloaf, meatloaf recipe
Ingredients & Prepping the Brown Sugar Glaze
Here’s what you need and how to bring everything together effortlessly.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef (80% lean) | 1 lb |
| Large egg, beaten | 1 |
| Breadcrumbs | ½ cup |
| Milk | ¼ cup |
| Brown sugar (for glaze) | ¼ cup |
| Ketchup (for glaze) | ¼ cup |
| Mustard (optional, for depth) | 1 tsp |
| Salt, pepper, garlic or onion powder | To taste |
That’s your sweet-salty combo. Keep it simple—I always go with classic ingredients. If you love oven-baked meat with a sweet glaze, you’ll also enjoy the mini-style ease of my Mini Meatloaf Muffins.
Step-by-Step: Baking This Sweet-Savory Loaf
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a loaf pan with foil or use a lightly greased loaf pan.
- In a bowl, gently mix ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, and seasonings.
- Press mixture into the loaf pan evenly.
- Mix the brown sugar, ketchup, and optional mustard in a small bowl for the glaze.
- Spread the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for about 30–35 minutes, then add more glaze if desired and bake another 10–15 minutes, until internal temperature hits 160°F.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to set the glaze and juices.
The slice should reveal a juicy interior with a shiny caramel top. If you prefer flavors with a cheesy twist, check out my French Onion Meatloaf—same warmth, different flavor profile.
Smart Tweaks, Serving Ideas & FAQs
Variations & Serving Ideas
Add a pinch of chili flakes for a kick, or stir chopped onions into the beef for extra flavor and texture. Serve with garlic mashed potatoes or roasted veggies. Want a classic comfort pairing? My Grandma’s Secret Meatloaf captures that same nostalgia without the sweet glaze.
FAQ
Can I prep the glaze in advance?
Yes! Mix and store it in the fridge—just zap it warm before spreading.
How to keep the meatloaf moist?
Use 80% lean beef, avoid overmixing, and allow for resting after baking.
Can this be frozen?
Sure thing. Wrap the baked loaf tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Safe internal temperature?
Bake until 160°F, then let rest—your loaf will finish near 165°F, ideal for ground beef safety.
Brown Sugar Glazed Meatloaf blends sweet and savory in one irresistible bite. It’s easy to make, feels special, and always earns compliments. It’s home-cooked comfort with a sticky-sweet twist everyone loves.
Give it a rest before slicing, pair with your favorite sides, and watch smiles form at the table. Sweet, simple, and memorable—this meatloaf checks all the boxes.