Brown Sugar Meatloaf

I found a recipe card among my grandmother's recipe.

Meatloaf is a beloved comfort food that has graced dinner tables for generations. But have you ever tried adding a sweet twist to this classic dish? Introducing **Brown Sugar Meatloaf**—a delightful variation that combines the savory goodness of meatloaf with a sweet, tangy glaze. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add a little extra flavor to their meal. Let's dive into how you can make this delicious dish at home.

Note that the brown sugar and ketchup are on the bottom of the meatloaf. You may want to flip it out of the pan to see the ketchup and brown sugar glaze.

**Ingredients:**

- 1 1/2 lbs. lean ground beef

- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

- 1/2 cup ketchup

- 3/4 cup milk

- 2 eggs

- 1 1/2 tsp. salt

- 1/4 tsp. black pepper

- 1 onion, chopped

- 1/4 tsp. ground ginger

- 3/4 cup saltine crackers, finely crushed

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat Your Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 5x9 inch loaf pan to ensure the meatloaf doesn't stick.

2. **Prepare the Glaze**: Press the brown sugar into the bottom of the prepared loaf pan. Spread the ketchup evenly over the brown sugar. This will create a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes as the meatloaf bakes.

3. **Mix the Meatloaf**: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, milk, eggs, salt, pepper, chopped onion, ground ginger, and crushed saltine crackers. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

4. **Shape and Bake**: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on top of the ketchup in the loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the juices run clear.

5. **Serve and Enjoy**: Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables, and enjoy the sweet and savory flavors.

**Why You'll Love This Recipe:**

- **Unique Flavor**: The combination of brown sugar and ketchup creates a delicious glaze that adds a sweet and tangy twist to the traditional meatloaf.

- **Simple Ingredients**: This recipe uses common pantry staples, making it easy to prepare without a special trip to the grocery store.

- **Comfort Food**: Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, and this version is sure to become a family favorite.

**Tips for Perfect Meatloaf:**

- **Don't Over mix**: Over mixing the meat can result in a dense meatloaf. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

- **Use Lean Beef**: Lean ground beef helps reduce the amount of grease in the loaf, making it healthier and less messy.

- **Let It Rest**: Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a juicier loaf.

Brown Sugar Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic dish that brings a touch of sweetness to your dinner table. It's perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress with a comforting and flavorful meal. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become a new favorite in your household!

I hope you enjoy this blog post! If you need more recipes or tips, feel free to ask. Happy cooking!

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