Print

Classic Diner-Style Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

classic diner-style meatloaf with brown sugar glaze - featured image
Print Recipe

This Classic Diner-Style Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze is tender, juicy, and topped with a sweet-tangy caramelized crust. It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings the nostalgic diner experience home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze)
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with oil or non-stick spray. If using a baking sheet, line with parchment paper.
  2. Heat a small skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the finely diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes to form a panade.
  4. To the panade, add the sautéed onions and garlic, beaten eggs, Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 cup ketchup, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with a fork until just combined. Add ground beef and use your hands to gently mix until no streaks of breadcrumb remain. Do not overmix.
  5. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Gently press into the pan, eliminating air pockets. If using a baking sheet, shape into a 9×5-inch loaf.
  6. In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce. Whisk over medium heat until sugar dissolves and mixture is smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
  7. Place meatloaf in the oven and bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and spoon or brush about half of the glaze evenly over the top. Return to oven.
  8. Continue baking for another 25-35 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) in the center. The glaze will be bubbly and caramelized.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest in the pan for at least 10 minutes. Slice and serve with remaining glaze drizzled on top.

Notes

For a crispier crust, shape the loaf free-form on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, diner-style, comfort food, ground beef, easy dinner

Find it online: https://platebelle.com/classic-diner-style-meatloaf-with-brown-sugar-glaze-easy-homemade-recipe/