This exceptionally tender Brown Sugar Meatloaf is infused with the rich flavors of Worcestershire sauce and French onion soup mix, then glazed with a sweet and tangy brown sugar sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest, offering a delightful twist on the classic meatloaf. The addition of breadcrumbs and milk ensures a moist and flavorful loaf, while the glaze adds a perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
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1½ pounds ground beef
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1 cup breadcrumbs
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1 ounce packet onion soup mix
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 egg, beaten
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1 teaspoon table salt (or to taste)
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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1 cup milk
For the Glaze:
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½ cup ketchup
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¼ cup apple cider vinegar
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¼ cup brown sugar
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large bowl, gently crumble the ground beef. Add the breadcrumbs, onion soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, beaten egg, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar to make the glaze.
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Spread half of the glaze on the bottom and sides of a loaf pan. Transfer the meat mixture into the pan, pressing it firmly into a loaf shape. Pour the remaining glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
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Calories: 668 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 44 g
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Protein: 35 g
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Fat: 37 g
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Saturated Fat: 14 g
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Cholesterol: 126 mg
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Sodium: 1237 mg
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Potassium: 750 mg
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Fiber: 1 g
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Sugar: 25 g
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Vitamin A: 255 IU
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Vitamin C: 1.8 mg
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Calcium: 170 mg
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Iron: 5.1 mg
The Evolution of Meatloaf: A Comfort Food Classic
Meatloaf is one of the most beloved comfort foods, known for its simplicity, versatility, and heartwarming qualities. Its roots trace back to Europe, where similar meat mixtures have been prepared for centuries. However, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that meatloaf became a staple in American households. Often associated with budget-friendly meals, meatloaf evolved over time with the addition of various ingredients, seasonings, and cooking methods. From plain, unseasoned meatloafs to those enhanced with rich glazes and flavor-packed ingredients, meatloaf has made its mark as a comfort food that pleases families and guests alike.
This Brown Sugar Meatloaf recipe provides a modern twist on the classic dish. By incorporating ingredients such as Worcestershire sauce, onion soup mix, and a unique brown sugar glaze, it offers a savory-sweet combination that adds depth and richness. The balance of flavors and textures make this recipe not only a delicious dinner but also a conversation starter at your dinner table.
What Makes Brown Sugar Meatloaf Unique?
The most notable feature of this Brown Sugar Meatloaf is the glaze that is generously poured over the top. The combination of brown sugar, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar creates a sticky, sweet coating that contrasts beautifully with the savory flavors of the meatloaf. This glaze is what sets it apart from a traditional meatloaf. The sweetness of the brown sugar helps to balance the savory elements of the meat, and the tang from the vinegar adds an extra layer of depth.
Additionally, the use of French onion soup mix in the meatloaf mixture adds another layer of flavor. This pre-packaged seasoning mix contains a blend of onions, herbs, and spices that complement the ground beef perfectly. It’s a shortcut to infuse complex flavor into the meat without needing to chop or sauté onions. The use of breadcrumbs and milk ensures that the meatloaf remains moist, which is essential for a tender and juicy texture.
The Importance of Meat Choice in Meatloaf
When making meatloaf, the choice of meat is crucial. Ground beef is the most common base for meatloaf, providing both flavor and texture. However, the fat content of the beef can affect the final product. In this Brown Sugar Meatloaf, using a higher-fat ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) is ideal, as the fat helps keep the meatloaf juicy and tender. Leaner cuts may result in a drier loaf. If you’re looking for a slightly lighter version, you could use a mix of lean ground beef and ground turkey or chicken to reduce the fat content, though the overall flavor and moisture may vary.
Another option is to incorporate ground pork, which is often used in traditional meatloaf recipes to add moisture and flavor. The addition of ground pork helps to balance the texture of the beef while enhancing the flavor profile. Experimenting with different meat combinations can give you a unique take on this classic recipe.
The Role of Breadcrumbs and Milk in Meatloaf
Breadcrumbs are often used in meatloaf recipes to provide structure and moisture. The bread absorbs some of the juices from the meat while baking, which helps to prevent the meatloaf from becoming dry. In this recipe, the milk soaks into the breadcrumbs, creating a soft, moist mixture that binds the meat and seasonings together. The result is a meatloaf that holds its shape but doesn’t crumble when sliced.
Breadcrumbs come in different forms, from plain to seasoned varieties. You can experiment with different types of breadcrumbs based on your flavor preferences. Panko breadcrumbs, for example, will give the meatloaf a lighter texture compared to traditional fine breadcrumbs. Additionally, gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used for those with dietary restrictions, allowing everyone to enjoy this dish.
Why the Glaze Matters
The glaze in this Brown Sugar Meatloaf plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor and appearance of the dish. It’s what gives the meatloaf its sweet, sticky exterior. The brown sugar in the glaze not only adds sweetness but also helps to caramelize during baking, creating a beautiful golden-brown finish on the meatloaf. The tangy apple cider vinegar balances the sweetness of the sugar, preventing the glaze from becoming overly sweet and cloying. Meanwhile, the ketchup adds a familiar, savory tang that complements the richness of the beef.
In addition to the flavor, the glaze adds a glossy, appetizing sheen to the meatloaf, making it visually appealing and inviting. The glaze can be modified according to your personal tastes. Some people like to add a bit of Dijon mustard for an extra kick, while others might use balsamic vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar for a more complex flavor profile.
The Perfect Meatloaf Texture
One of the key aspects of any great meatloaf is its texture. A perfectly cooked meatloaf should be moist but not mushy, firm but not dry. Achieving the right texture is all about balancing the ingredients and cooking time. Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can result in a dense, tough loaf, while under-mixing can lead to a crumbly meatloaf. The key is to mix the ingredients just enough to combine them without overworking the meat.
The milk and breadcrumbs help to achieve the desired moist texture, while the egg binds everything together. If the meatloaf mixture feels too wet, you can add a little extra breadcrumbs to help firm it up. On the other hand, if it’s too dry, a splash more milk will help balance it out.
Making Meatloaf Ahead of Time
One of the best aspects of meatloaf is that it can be made ahead of time. Whether you’re preparing a large meal or simply looking to have dinner ready quickly, meatloaf can be assembled in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prepping or preparing a weeknight dinner.
After assembling the meatloaf, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to cook, simply remove it from the fridge, add the glaze, and bake according to the recipe’s instructions. This not only saves you time on the day of baking but also allows the flavors to meld together even more.
Pairing Suggestions
Brown Sugar Meatloaf is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. For a classic comfort food meal, consider serving it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. The richness of the meatloaf balances beautifully with the creamy texture of mashed potatoes or the crunch of roasted Brussels sprouts. You can also serve it with a side of macaroni and cheese for a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy.
If you’re looking for something lighter, steamed green beans or a fresh cucumber salad would make a great complement to the savory-sweet meatloaf. The acidity of a vinegar-based salad or pickled vegetables can help cut through the richness of the meatloaf and provide a refreshing contrast.
Health Considerations and Modifications
While meatloaf is a comforting and filling dish, it’s also important to consider its nutritional content, especially if you’re following a specific diet or trying to make healthier choices. This Brown Sugar Meatloaf, while delicious, is on the higher side in calories, fat, and sodium. If you’re looking to make it healthier, there are several modifications you can make:
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Lean Meat: Using lean ground beef or a mix of ground turkey and ground beef can help reduce the fat content.
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Low-Sodium Ingredients: Opt for low-sodium Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and onion soup mix to cut down on the salt.
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Gluten-Free Options: Replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives, such as crushed gluten-free crackers or oats, to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivity.
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Vegetable Add-ins: You can sneak in some finely grated vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, into the meatloaf mixture to boost the nutrition and add some moisture.
Conclusion
This Brown Sugar Meatloaf offers a unique and delicious take on a classic dish. Its tender, juicy texture, enhanced by the flavorful meat mixture and sweet-savory glaze, makes it an ideal choice for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prepping. With its balance of flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Whether you stick to the traditional ingredients or experiment with your own variations, meatloaf remains a timeless dish that brings comfort and joy to the table.