Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Topping
There’s something deeply comforting about a classic meatloaf, and this version with a brown sugar topping elevates it to a whole new level. The combination of sweet and savory creates a perfect balance, and the rich flavors meld together as it bakes, filling your home with an irresistible aroma. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a dish to impress guests, this meatloaf is simple yet packed with flavor—everyone will be asking for seconds!
This recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, yet it’s impressive enough to serve during special occasions. Its satisfying texture and wonderful taste will remind you of home-cooked meals from childhood, creating not just a dinner but a warm memory around the dining table.
This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
Gather your ingredients to make the perfect meatloaf.
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix!
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish for easy cleanup.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, ketchup, and chili powder until smooth.
- Spread the sweet topping generously over the meatloaf, allowing some to drip down the sides for extra flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps keep it juicy and prevents it from crumbling.
Tips & Variations
- Ingredient Substitutions: You can use ground turkey or chicken in place of beef for a leaner version. Gluten-free breadcrumbs work well for a gluten-free option.
- Optional Variations: Add diced bell peppers or shredded carrots into the meat mixture for extra veggies. A dash of Worcestershire sauce in the meat mixture can also enhance the flavor.
- Storage and Reheating Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or the oven at low heat to prevent drying out.
Recipe Information
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 1 hour
- Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty level: Easy
Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Topping
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used for a gluten-free option.
- 0.5 cup chopped onion
- 0.5 cup milk
- 1 piece egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 0.25 cup brown sugar
- 0.5 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix!
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish for easy cleanup.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, ketchup, and chili powder until smooth.
- Spread the sweet topping generously over the meatloaf, allowing some to drip down the sides for extra flavor.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps keep it juicy and prevents it from crumbling.