Juicy Brown Sugar Glazed Meatloaf
Juicy homemade meatloaf topped with a sweet and tangy brown sugar ketchup glaze. A comforting American family dinner with simple ingredients.
By RecipeLily Editorial Team · Published October 7, 2026 · Updated November 13, 2026
Nothing brings classic American comfort food to the dinner table quite like a homemade meatloaf. This Brown Sugar Glazed Meatloaf combines seasoned ground beef, tender breadcrumbs, and a deliciously sweet and tangy glaze for a satisfying family meal.
The secret to a tender meatloaf is mixing the ingredients gently and adding milk-soaked breadcrumbs to keep the texture moist. A mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar creates a glossy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
Serve thick slices with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or buttery corn for a cozy weeknight dinner. Leftovers also make delicious meatloaf sandwiches the next day.
RecipeLily.com
Juicy Brown Sugar Glazed Meatloaf
- Prep Time
- 20 mins
- Cook Time
- 1 hr 10 mins
- Additional
- 10 mins
- Total Time
- 1 hr 40 mins
- Servings
- 8
- Yield
- 1 (9-by-5-inch) meatloaf, 8 slices
Ingredients
Servings: 8
- For the Meatloaf
- For the Brown Sugar Glaze
- Optional Garnish
Directions
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
Step 2
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let the mixture rest for approximately 5 minutes until the breadcrumbs soften.
Step 3
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried parsley, kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Step 4
Add the ground beef, softened breadcrumbs, finely diced onion, and minced garlic. Mix gently with clean hands or a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Step 5
Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Shape it into an even loaf approximately 9 inches long and 5 inches wide.
Step 6
In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder until smooth.
Step 7
Spread approximately half of the brown sugar glaze evenly over the top and sides of the meatloaf.
Step 8
Bake for approximately 40 minutes. Carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the remaining glaze over the top.
Step 9
Return to the oven and continue baking for approximately 20–30 minutes, until the center reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) on a food thermometer.
Step 10
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for approximately 10 minutes before slicing.
Step 11
Cut into eight portions, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm with mashed potatoes or your favorite vegetables.
Cook’s Notes
For a tender meatloaf, avoid overmixing the ground beef. Mix only until the ingredients are combined.
Soaking the breadcrumbs in milk helps retain moisture and creates a softer texture.
Use 85% lean ground beef for a balance of flavor and moisture.
For a richer glaze, add an extra teaspoon of brown sugar or a small splash of apple cider vinegar to taste.
Always use a food thermometer to check that the center of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to help it hold its shape.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours in airtight containers at 40°F (4°C) or below. Enjoy within 3–4 days and reheat to 165°F (74°C).
Serve with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, or green beans for a complete homemade dinner.
