About This Recipe
A good meatloaf is the very definition of comfort food. This version is tender and juicy thanks to a simple "panade" — breadcrumbs soaked in milk — and it is finished with a glossy brown sugar and ketchup glaze that caramelizes in the oven.
It is an ideal make-ahead meal, and the leftovers make some of the best sandwiches you will ever eat. Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans for a meal the whole family will love.
Tips for Success
- Baking the loaf free-form on a sheet pan (rather than in a loaf pan) lets more glaze caramelize.
- For a lighter version, use half ground beef and half ground turkey; cook turkey blends to 165°F.
- Leftover slices reheat best covered in a 325°F oven or gently in a skillet.
Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze
Moist, tender meatloaf topped with a tangy-sweet glaze — the classic family dinner, just like you remember it.
Ingredients
For the meatloaf
For the glaze
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 350°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment.
- In a large bowl, stir together the breadcrumbs and milk and let them soak for 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef, onion, garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, pepper and parsley. Mix gently with your hands just until combined — overmixing makes meatloaf dense.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf about 9 by 5 inches on the prepared baking sheet.
- Whisk together the glaze ingredients. Brush half of the glaze over the loaf.
- Bake for 40 minutes. Brush with the remaining glaze and bake 15 to 20 minutes more, until the center reaches 160°F on an instant-read thermometer.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Recipe by Flavor Ora · https://flavorora.site/old-fashioned-meatloaf.html
Questions & Answers
Why does my meatloaf fall apart?
It may need more binder or more resting time. The eggs and soaked breadcrumbs hold it together, and resting for 10 minutes before slicing helps it set.
Can I make meatloaf ahead?
Yes. Shape the loaf, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Always check ingredient labels for allergens, and follow safe food-handling practices. Cooking times can vary with your oven and equipment. See our Disclaimer.
