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Kid-Approved Glazed Meatloaf: Easy Brown Sugar Ketchup Recipe

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This kid-approved glazed meatloaf with brown sugar ketchup topping is the recipe that keeps on giving. It’s the one I turn to on busy weeknights, the one I bring to potlucks, the one my kids actually ask for by name. That sticky-sweet glaze, the tender meat inside, the way it makes the whole house smell like comfort—there’s nothing else quite like it.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (900g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • ½ cup (120ml) milk (whole milk preferred)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced or grated
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • ¾ cup (180ml) ketchup
  • ½ cup (100g) packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard (or Dijon)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides.
  2. Prepare the glaze first. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, packed brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and yellow mustard until smooth. Set aside.
  3. Sauté the aromatics. Heat a small skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil. Add the finely diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Let cool for a few minutes.
  4. Combine the wet ingredients. In your large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
  5. Add the dry ingredients. Stir in the breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Let sit for 2 minutes so the breadcrumbs can absorb the liquid.
  6. Add the meat. Add the ground beef and the cooled onion-garlic mixture. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
  7. Shape the meatloaf. Transfer the mixture to your prepared loaf pan. Press it in gently, making sure there are no air pockets. Shape the top into a slight dome.
  8. Apply the first layer of glaze. Spread about half of the brown sugar ketchup mixture over the top of the meatloaf. Reserve the rest for later.
  9. Bake for 45 minutes. Place the pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
  10. Apply the second layer of glaze. Carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes.
  11. Check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when measured in the center. If you don’t have a thermometer, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and the juices should run clear.
  12. Rest before slicing. Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes. Then use the parchment paper to lift it out and transfer to a cutting board. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

Don’t skip the milk—it adds moisture and tenderness. Grate your onion so it dissolves into the meat. The two-step glazing process is non-negotiable for the best crust. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep it moist. For a dairy-free version, use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, glazed meatloaf, brown sugar ketchup meatloaf, kid-friendly meatloaf, easy meatloaf, family dinner, comfort food

Find it online: https://jollyfork.com/kid-approved-glazed-meatloaf-easy-brown-sugar-ketchup-recipe/