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Savory Brown Sugar Glazed Meatloaf Recipe with Perfect Caramelized Onions

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A comforting meatloaf featuring a sweet and savory brown sugar glaze paired with rich, slow-cooked caramelized onions, creating a juicy and flavorful classic with a twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
  • ¾ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
  • ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 large yellow onions (for caramelizing)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for caramelizing onions)
  • ½ cup brown sugar (packed, for glaze)
  • ¼ cup ketchup (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Slice 2 large yellow onions thinly. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally, cooking slowly for 30–40 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Add a splash of water if onions start sticking.
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Fold in half of the caramelized onions gently, avoiding overmixing.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×5-inch loaf pan, pressing evenly but not tightly.
  5. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and ketchup until smooth. Spread the glaze generously over the meatloaf.
  6. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Halfway through baking, spoon the remaining caramelized onions over the top.
  7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safety and juiciness. If glaze darkens too quickly, tent with foil. Caramelize onions low and slow to avoid burning. Glaze can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, caramelized onions, comfort food, easy dinner, savory meatloaf, family meal

Find it online: https://atomicbite.com/savory-brown-sugar-glazed-meatloaf-recipe-with-perfect-caramelized-onions/