Fresh Finds Recipes

  • Crockpot
  • Desserts
  • Dinner
  • Contact Me
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Crockpot
  • Desserts
  • Dinner
  • Contact Me
search icon
Homepage link
  • Crockpot
  • Desserts
  • Dinner
  • Contact Me
×

Brown Sugar Meatloaf

Published: Jun 6, 2025 by Jamie · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Love it? Share it!

  • Share
  • Send
Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Brown Sugar Meatloaf that promises to elevate comfort food to new heights.

Brown Sugar Meatloaf

This classic dish combines the rich, savory flavors of ground beef with a sweet and tangy brown sugar glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds. Moreover, the perfect blend of spices and a caramelized topping creates a meatloaf that's anything but boring.

Perfect for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or when you're craving a hearty meal that brings everyone to the table.

Brown Sugar Meatloaf: A Comfort Food Reinvented

This Brown Sugar Meatloaf isn't just another dinner option – it's a flavor explosion that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. The unique brown sugar glaze creates a memorable experience that sets this meatloaf apart from all others.

Prepare to discover a recipe that brings warmth and excitement to your dinner table.

Serving Suggestions for Brown Sugar Meatloaf:

Your Brown Sugar Meatloaf pairs perfectly with:

  • Creamy mashed potatoes
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Green bean casserole
  • Garlic bread
  • Fresh garden salad

Pro Tips for Crafting the Perfect Brown Sugar Meatloaf:

Meat Selection: Choose ground beef with some fat for maximum flavor.

Mixing Technique: Mix ingredients gently to keep the meatloaf tender.

Glaze Magic: Ensure even distribution of brown sugar and ketchup.

Resting Ritual: Let the meatloaf rest before slicing for best texture.

Moisture Maintenance: Don't overmix to prevent a tough meatloaf.

Brown Sugar Meatloaf

Brown Sugar Meatloaf Recipe Details:

  • Preparation time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 6-8
  • Equipment: 5x9-inch loaf pan, mixing bowl, measuring cups

The ultimate comfort food classic that brings nostalgia to your dinner table.

Ingredients:

For the Brown Sugar Glaze:

  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • ½ cup ketchup

For the Meatloaf Base:

  • 1 and ½ pounds ground beef
  • ¾ cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 and ½ teaspoons salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ¾ cup finely crushed saltine crackers or breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Additional ketchup

Directions for Crafting Your Brown Sugar Meatloaf:

  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures the perfect cooking environment for your Brown Sugar Meatloaf.
  2. Prepare the loaf pan by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter. This prevents sticking and helps with easy removal.
  3. Create the signature glaze by evenly spreading the brown sugar across the bottom of the pan. Carefully pour and spread the ketchup over the brown sugar layer.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, milk, and eggs. The milk helps keep the meatloaf moist and tender.
  5. Add the salt, black pepper, finely chopped onion, ground ginger, crushed crackers, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder (if using).
  6. Use your hands to mix the ingredients. The key is to combine everything gently – overmixing can lead to a tough meatloaf.
  7. Carefully transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Gently press the mixture to ensure it's evenly distributed.
  8. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour. The meatloaf should be completely cooked through.
  9. Check for doneness using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F at the center of the meatloaf.
  10. Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 10 minutes. This resting period helps the meatloaf set and makes slicing easier.

Ready to Enjoy Your Brown Sugar Meatloaf!

Carefully invert the pan onto a serving platter. The brown sugar and ketchup glaze will create a beautiful, caramelized topping.

Storage Solutions:

  • Refrigerate in an airtight container
  • Consume within 3-4 days
  • Reheat gently in the oven to maintain moisture
  • Can be sliced and frozen for up to 1 month
  • Best reheated in the oven to preserve texture

Whether you're planning a cozy family dinner or looking for a nostalgic comfort meal, this Brown Sugar Meatloaf will become a cherished recipe in your collection.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Brown Sugar Meatloaf

Brown Sugar Meatloaf

Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

The ultimate comfort food classic that brings nostalgia to your dinner table.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Brown Sugar Glaze:

  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • ½ cup ketchup

For the Meatloaf Base:

  • 1 and ½ pounds ground beef
  • ¾ cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 and ½ teaspoons salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ¾ cup finely crushed saltine crackers or breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Additional ketchup

Instructions

  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures the perfect cooking environment for your Brown Sugar Meatloaf.
  2. Prepare the loaf pan by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter. This prevents sticking and helps with easy removal.
  3. Create the signature glaze by evenly spreading the brown sugar across the bottom of the pan. Carefully pour and spread the ketchup over the brown sugar layer.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, milk, and eggs. The milk helps keep the meatloaf moist and tender.
  5. Add the salt, black pepper, finely chopped onion, ground ginger, crushed crackers, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder (if using).
  6. Use your hands to mix the ingredients. The key is to combine everything gently – overmixing can lead to a tough meatloaf.
  7. Carefully transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Gently press the mixture to ensure it's evenly distributed.
  8. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour. The meatloaf should be completely cooked through.
  9. Check for doneness using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F at the center of the meatloaf.
  10. Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 10 minutes. This resting period helps the meatloaf set and makes slicing easier.
  • Author: Jamie
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Brown Sugar Meatloaf
Tweet
Share
Share
Pin3
3 Shares

More Desserts

  • Brown Sugar Fudge
    Brown Sugar Fudge
  • Hershey's Best Brownies Recipe
    Hershey's Best Brownies Recipe
  • Peach Cobbler Recipe
    Peach Cobbler Recipe
  • Strawberry Cream Cheese Bread
    Strawberry Cream Cheese Bread

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating ★☆ ★☆ ★☆ ★☆ ★☆

Welcome!

Meet Jamie, a chef who shares easy, tasty recipes everyone loves, plus helpful tips to make cooking simple and fun every day!

More about me

Popular

  • The Easiest Fresh Peach Cobbler Ever
    The Easiest Fresh Peach Cobbler Ever
  • Pineapple Dream Dessert
    Pineapple Dream Dessert
  • Coconut Balls
    Coconut Balls
  • Not Yo' Mama's Banana Pudding Recipe
    Not Yo' Mama's Banana Pudding Recipe

Seasonal

  • Donut Muffins
    Donut Muffins
  • Award Winning Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies
    Award Winning Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies
  • Amazing Chicken Casserole
    Amazing Chicken Casserole
  • Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
    Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Footer

↑ back to top

About

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms & Conditions

Newsletter

  • Sign Up! for emails and updates

Contact

  • Contact Me
  • About Me

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Copyright © 2025 Fresh Finds Recipes