Name: Classic Meatloaf with Ketchup and Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds 80%-90% ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey, or 1 pound ground pork and 1 pound ground beef); 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/3 cup beef broth (or milk); 2 large eggs, whisked; 2-3 Tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley; 2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 2 Tablespoons ketchup; 1 1/4 teaspoons Kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 2/3 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce (or a mix of half and half); 2-3 Tablespoons light brown sugar

Ingredients

2 pounds 80%-90% ground beef (or ground turkey or 1 pound ground pork and 1 pound ground beef)

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/3 cup beef broth (or milk)

2 large eggs (whisked)

2-3 Tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley

2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

2 Tablespoons ketchup

1 1/4 teaspoons Kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

2/3 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce (you could mix half and half)

2-3 Tablespoons light brown sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet or 9×5-inch loaf pan with foil. Lightly spray it with non-stick spray and set aside.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, beef broth, whisked eggs, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix gently until just combined to keep the meatloaf tender.

Step 3: Press the mixture into the prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf directly on the baking sheet.

Step 4: In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup or BBQ sauce with the light brown sugar. Spread this sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Add a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.

Step 5: Bake for about 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F using a meat thermometer. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Tips & Variations

Use a mix of ground meats like pork and beef for added flavor and moisture.

Try adding finely chopped vegetables like onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture for extra texture.

Swap the panko breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or oats if preferred.

For a smokier twist, use barbecue sauce instead of ketchup for the topping.

Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep your meatloaf tender and juicy.

FAQs

Can I make meatloaf without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or use an additional binding agent like breadcrumbs soaked in milk to help hold the meatloaf together.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer and ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F. This guarantees the meatloaf is safe to eat and perfectly cooked.