Description

Discover the secret to the best meatloaf recipe with this foolproof method. This juicy, flavorful meatloaf features tender ground beef, fresh breadcrumbs soaked in broth, and a rich brown sugar glaze that caramelizes to perfection. It’s a timeless comfort food classic that delivers consistent, restaurant-quality results every time.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lb ground beef (80/20 fat ratio)
4 slices fresh white bread, processed into breadcrumbs
1/3 cup beef broth (Better Than Bouillon optional)
1 1/2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 pinch ground thyme
2 pinches dry parsley
1 tbsp vegetable oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups red onion, diced
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Brown Sugar Glaze:
1/2 cup ketchup
4–5 tbsp light brown sugar
2 tsp pepper (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with foil. Place a separate water-filled pan on the lowest oven rack for steam.
In a skillet, heat oil and sauté onions for 6–8 minutes until soft and golden. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Cool for 5 minutes.
In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Let soak 5 minutes to form a panade.
In another bowl, whisk ketchup, brown sugar, and pepper for the glaze. Set aside half for topping later.
In a large bowl, gently mix ground beef, herbs, salt, pepper, soaked breadcrumbs, and cooled onion mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
Shape into an 8×4-inch loaf on a baking sheet. Brush with half the glaze.
Bake 45–60 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Brush remaining glaze on during the final 10 minutes.
Let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing for tender, juicy results.

Notes

Use 80/20 beef for optimal juiciness. Avoid overmixing to maintain tender texture. Let rest before slicing. Substitute half the beef with turkey or pork for variation. Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 400
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 115mg

Keywords: meatloaf, best meatloaf recipe, brown sugar glaze, comfort food, juicy meatloaf, classic meatloaf