Brown Sugar Meatloaf is a delicious twist on the classic meatloaf recipe, featuring a sweet and savory glaze made with brown sugar. This comforting dish typically combines ground beef (or a mix of meats like beef and pork) with breadcrumbs, eggs, onions, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, and garlic. What sets it apart is the topping a rich, tangy glaze often made by blending brown sugar with ketchup, mustard, or Worcestershire sauce, which caramelizes as it bakes, giving the meatloaf a flavorful crust.
Ingredients :
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup ketchup
1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
3/4 cup milk
2 eggs
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 small onion, chopped
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
3/4 cup finely crushed saltine cracker crumbs
Method :
Preheat your oven to 350°F (170°C) before you begin.
Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ketchup until well combined. Set aside.
Mix the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, milk, eggs, salt, pepper, onion, ginger, and cracker crumbs. Mix well.
Form the mixture into a loaf shape and transfer it to a loaf pan.
Add the Topping: Spread the brown sugar and ketchup mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F or 70°C).
FAQ
1- Is it possible to substitute the meat with another variety?
A: Certainly! You can replace the beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork if preferred. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of meat used.
2- Can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the saltine cracker crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
3- Can I make this meatloaf in advance?
A: Yes, you can mix and shape the meatloaf into a loaf up to a day ahead of time. Keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the meatloaf is cold from the fridge.
4- What can I use instead of ketchup?
A: If you don’t have ketchup, you can use tomato sauce or barbecue sauce as a substitute. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
5- How do I know when the meatloaf is done cooking?
A: To ensure the meatloaf is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center of the loaf, and it should register 160°F (70°C).