Brown Sugar Meatloaf: A Comfort Food Classic

Introduction

Meatloaf is a quintessential comfort food, evoking memories of family dinners and hearty, satisfying meals. The Brown Sugar Meatloaf recipe takes this classic dish to the next level with a sweet and tangy twist that’s sure to delight your taste buds. This recipe is perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners, offering a straightforward approach to creating a flavorful and moist meatloaf. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious dish.

Ingredients

Before we start, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients:

• Cooking spray
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup ketchup
• 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
• 2 large eggs
• 1 small onion, chopped
• ¾ cup milk
• ¾ cup finely crushed saltine cracker crumbs
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat and Prepare the Loaf Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). While the oven is heating, lightly grease a 5×9-inch loaf pan with cooking spray. This step ensures that the meatloaf will not stick to the pan and will come out easily after baking.

2. Create the Brown Sugar and Ketchup Layer

Press the packed brown sugar into the bottom of the prepared loaf pan. Spread the ketchup evenly over the brown sugar. This combination forms a sweet and tangy glaze that will caramelize as the meatloaf bakes, adding a delicious flavor to every bite.

3. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, eggs, chopped onion, milk, finely crushed saltine cracker crumbs, salt, ground black pepper, and ground ginger. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. The milk and cracker crumbs help to keep the meatloaf moist, while the spices add a subtle depth of flavor.

4. Shape and Bake the Meatloaf

Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on top of the ketchup and brown sugar layer in the loaf pan. Ensure that the loaf is evenly shaped for consistent cooking. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the juices run clear. A meat thermometer inserted into the center of the loaf should read 160 degrees F (70 degrees C) to ensure it is fully cooked.

5. Let the Meatloaf Rest

Once the meatloaf is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, making it easier to slice and ensuring each piece is juicy and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Brown Sugar Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions to complete your meal:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic accompaniment to meatloaf. The smooth texture and rich flavor complement the meatloaf perfectly.
• Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans add a fresh, crisp contrast to the savory meatloaf.
• Macaroni and Cheese: For a truly indulgent meal, serve your meatloaf with a side of creamy macaroni and cheese.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the meatloaf.

Tips for Success

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Lean ground beef helps to reduce the amount of fat in the meatloaf, making it healthier while still being flavorful.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until they are combined. Overmixing can result in a dense, tough meatloaf.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing ensures that it holds together well and is juicy.

Variations

While the classic Brown Sugar Meatloaf is delicious as is, there are several variations you can try to suit your taste:

• Spicy: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
• Cheesy: Mix in a cup of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a cheesy twist.
• Vegetable: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or celery for added texture and nutrition.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, Brown Sugar Meatloaf stores well. Place any remaining meatloaf in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, place slices of meatloaf in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium heat until heated through, usually about 1-2 minutes per slice. Alternatively, you can reheat the meatloaf in the oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for about 15-20 minutes.

For longer storage, wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw the meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the reheating instructions above.

Conclusion

Brown Sugar Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a traditional dish, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The combination of brown sugar and ketchup creates a delicious glaze that elevates the meatloaf to new heights. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is a fantastic choice for any home cook. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Brown Sugar Meatloaf is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the comforting taste of this classic dish, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a staple in your household. Happy cooking!

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  Brown Sugar Meatloaf: A Comfort Food Classic

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  • Author: hdrecipes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

  Print Recipe

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  Description

  A delicious and savory meatloaf with a sweet brown sugar glaze, perfect for a comforting dinner. This meatloaf is juicy, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making it a family favorite.

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  Ingredients

  Scale 1x2x3x

  • cooking spray
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • ¾ cup milk
  • ¾ cup finely crushed saltine cracker crumbs
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

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  Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 5×9-inch loaf pan.
  • Press brown sugar into the bottom of the prepared loaf pan and spread ketchup over top sugar.
  • Mix all remaining ingredients thoroughly in a mixing bowl and shape into a loaf. Place on top of the ketchup and sugar crust.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until juices are clear.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

  Nutrition

  • Calories: 430
  • Sodium: 830mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg