Main menu

Edit post

Brown Sugar Meatloaf

Carly
(0)

The Alluring Aroma of Comfort: Brown Sugar Glazed Meatloaf

Brown Sugar Meatloaf

This recipe isn't just for a meatloaf; it's for a heartwarming experience. The aroma of savory spices and rich brown sugar will waft through your kitchen, beckoning everyone to the table. This dish is surprisingly simple to prepare, yet delivers on flavor in a big way.

Ingredients:

  • Sweet and Tangy Glaze:
    • ½ cup packed light brown sugar
    • ½ cup ketchup
  • Savory Meatloaf:
    • 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef (90/10 blend recommended for moistness)
    • ¾ cup milk
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
    • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
    • 1 small onion, finely chopped
    • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger (optional, for a warming touch)
    • ¾ cup finely crushed saltine crackers (or panko breadcrumbs)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Lightly grease a loaf pan, approximately 9x5 inches in size.
  2. Craft the Sweet and Tangy Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ketchup. Stir until well incorporated. This will be your delicious glaze for the meatloaf.
  3. Build the Flavorful Meatloaf Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, milk, eggs, salt, pepper, chopped onion, and ground ginger (if using). Use a gentle hand to mix everything together until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can make the meatloaf tough.
  4. Incorporate the Crunchy Texture: Gently fold in the crushed saltine crackers or panko breadcrumbs. These will help bind the meatloaf mixture and add a delightful textural contrast.
  5. Shape and Glaze: Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Using your hands, gently shape it into a compact loaf. Spread the prepared brown sugar glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  6. Bake to Perfection: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit (70 degrees Celsius). The juices running from the meatloaf should also be clear.
  7. Rest and Slice: Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting step allows the meatloaf's natural juices to redistribute, ensuring a more flavorful and moist final product.
  8. Serve and Savor: Slice the meatloaf and serve it alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

Tips:

  • Spice it Up: For a touch of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture.
  • Veggie Boost: Incorporate finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini into the meatloaf mixture for added flavor and nutrients.
  • Cheese Surprise: If you're feeling adventurous, sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the meatloaf before baking for a cheesy pull.
  • Leftovers Reimagined: Leftover meatloaf can be transformed into delicious sandwiches, crumbled over salads, or used as an ingredient in a hearty soup.
  • Freshness Matters: For the best results, use fresh, high-quality ingredients.

With this recipe and a few simple tips, you can create a mouthwatering brown sugar glazed meatloaf that will become a family favorite. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the comfort and joy of a classic dish with a delightful twist.

Comments

Post a Comment