Brown Sugar Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze Recipe

Name: Brown Sugar Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cup ketchup; 0.5 cup packed brown sugar; 1.5 teaspoons salt; 0.5 teaspoon chili powder; 1.5 pounds lean ground beef; 1.5 cups croutons, crushed; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 eggs; 0.25 cup milk; 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients

cup ketchup
cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoons salt
teaspoon chili powder
1 pounds lean ground beef
1 cups croutons, crushed
1 small onion, chopped
2 eggs
cup milk
teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

Step 1: Gather all ingredients.

Step 2: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C) and lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Step 3: In a bowl, stir together ketchup, brown sugar, salt, and chili powder until smooth.

Step 4: Spread a small amount of the ketchup mixture into the bottom of the prepared loaf pan.

Step 5: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crushed croutons, chopped onion, eggs, milk, and black pepper.

Step 6: Mix the ingredients together until well combined, then shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.

Step 7: Spread the remaining ketchup mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is no longer pink in the center. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 160F (70C).

Recipe Tip

You can use onion powder instead of fresh onion if preferred.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 278
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 19g

Nutrition Breakdown

Total Fat: 12g (16% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 5g (24% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 103mg (34% Daily Value)
Sodium: 720mg (31% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrates: 23g (8% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 1g (2% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 18g
Protein: 19g (38% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 3mg (3% Daily Value)
Calcium: 43mg (3% Daily Value)
Iron: 2mg (12% Daily Value)
Potassium: 327mg (7% Daily Value)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Brown Sugar Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze Recipe

History and Origin:

Meatloaf has long been a staple in American homes, particularly in the 20th century, when it became synonymous with family dinners and comfort food. The tradition of meatloaf, however, dates back even further and can be traced to European countries such as Germany and Italy. The recipe evolved over the years, with variations appearing in American cookbooks in the late 1800s. The addition of brown sugar and ketchup in this recipe creates a sweet-savory balance that modernizes the classic dish and adds a unique flair.

Regional Variations:

Meatloaf recipes can vary significantly depending on the region. For instance, in the American South, the dish might feature a spicier kick with ingredients like hot sauce or cayenne pepper. The use of brown sugar and ketchup, as in this recipe, is particularly popular in the Midwest and other regions where the focus is on hearty, flavorful meals that are easy to prepare. Some areas may even include a variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for extra depth of flavor.

Differences from Similar Dishes:

While meatloaf is often compared to dishes like meatballs or hamburger patties, it differs in its method of preparation and its structure. Unlike meatballs, which are typically round and served individually, meatloaf is formed into a loaf shape and baked as a single entity. Additionally, the addition of a sweet glazesuch as the brown sugar and ketchup mixture used in this recipedistinguishes it from other meat-based dishes, giving it a caramelized, slightly tangy finish that is unique to this dish.

Where It Is Typically Served:

Brown sugar meatloaf with ketchup glaze is a classic dish in American homes, often served as a hearty dinner during the colder months. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. The dish is a common feature in family gatherings, potlucks, and comfort food nights, thanks to its ease of preparation and ability to feed a crowd. It is also a great meal for meal prepping, as leftovers can be enjoyed the next day in sandwiches or as part of a mixed salad.

Interesting Facts:

Did you know that meatloaf has been called meatloaf cake in some parts of the United States? This is likely a nod to its shape, as well as its versatility, which allows it to be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. In fact, the glaze on this recipe, made with brown sugar and ketchup, not only enhances the flavor but also helps keep the meatloaf moist during the baking process. The combination of sweet and savory flavors was once considered a chef's trick to elevate simple, everyday meals into something extraordinary.

In many households, meatloaf represents a perfect balance between cost-efficiency and comfort. Its an affordable dish that can be made with minimal ingredients, yet it offers a satisfying and flavorful meal that pleases even the pickiest eaters.

FAQ about Brown Sugar Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze Recipe

To store leftover meatloaf, place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave it for a few minutes until heated through.

Yes, you can freeze meatloaf. Once it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes.

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day ahead of time. Simply assemble the meatloaf in the pan, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it overnight. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and bake as directed. This can save you time on busy nights!

If you don't have croutons, you can substitute with breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even oatmeal. Each substitute will yield a slightly different texture, but all will work well to bind the meatloaf together.

If you prefer a less sweet glaze, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar used in the ketchup mixture. You can also add a bit of Worcestershire sauce or vinegar to balance out the sweetness with some tang.

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. However, since turkey is leaner, it may result in a slightly drier meatloaf. To compensate, you can add a bit more milk or incorporate some olive oil or butter into the mix.

Absolutely! You can add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the meatloaf mixture for added flavor and nutrition. Be sure to sauté them beforehand to remove excess moisture.

To ensure your meatloaf is moist, make sure not to overmix the ingredients. Overmixing can cause the meat to become tough. Also, adding ingredients like milk, eggs, and breadcrumbs helps retain moisture. If you're using lean meat, consider adding some grated cheese or extra eggs.

Cooked meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap.

Yes, you can use ground pork, chicken, or lamb in place of ground beef for this meatloaf. Keep in mind that different meats may change the texture or flavor, so you might need to adjust seasoning or cooking time slightly.

Comments

Mark Campbell

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

Being an admitted amateur cook I have my own recipe but decided to look around as I do to get ideas. Brown sugar caught my eye and I tried it with fresh cut cilantro, mushroom and dried onions in the meat then butter honey crushed croutons in the ketchup,A1,mustard, brown sugar in the sauce. Best ever hands down ...EVER! I did not use too much brown sugar and the cilantro made a fresh very fresh taste. I never post on stuff like this but felt compelled. Excellent

WonkyGirl Glass

02/18/2023 01:44:21 AM

I added the brown sugar and katsup to the ground beef mixture. Added wooster sauce instead of chili powder. Also softened 1/2 cup chopped onions and added those. Mixed up some katsup and brown sugar to spread over meatloaf before baking. one pound of hamburger and one pound of sausage went into the recipe. We have made this several times, always tastes good.

coffeecourts

12/18/2020 01:43:04 AM

i followed this recipe very loosely because i was only looking for "meatloaf guidance". still, we all loved it. i actually just mixed all of the ingredients together, no glaze on top. i probably used about 3 lbs of meat (turkey/beef combo), used 1.5 cups of bread crumbs instead of croutons, added italian seasoning, a hint of cayenne along with the chili powder, 3 eggs instead of 2 (due to more meat), and cooked in two separate casserole dishes (because i made so much). it was delicious!

Deb McCleary

12/21/2022 10:31:57 PM

I added the brown sugar to meat mixture and used Panko bread crumbs in place of croutons. No chili powder, but 2 TBS Wooster. sauce. In spite of all the changes, the meatloaf was super delish. I made a glaze using brown sugar and catsup. 5 star fare!

Bananagrl

10/09/2021 06:54:53 AM

Best meatloaf ever! I used butter garlic croutons, onion powder and just a dash of chili powder in the glaze. Took advice of other reviewers and added the salt to the meat mixture. I’d use less sugar in the glaze next time, although it was delicious as is. My husband said it was the best textured meatloaf he’s had. Made great leftovers the next day. I prepared it in the afternoon, covered the loaf pan with plastic wrap and put it in the fridge until I was ready to bake it. Let it set out on the counter while the oven preheated. Removed the plastic wrap and naked for an hour. Might try checking it at 55 minutes next time. Will make again!

nancy Mcphillips

11/25/2020 06:01:27 PM

Made 1/2 recipe. No Chile sauce. 1/2 pkg. onion soup mix.garlic powder. a little over 1/4 C ritz crackers crushed. I small Onion and chopped green peppers sautéed well before adding to meat. 1/4 C ketchup, 1/4 C brown sugar on top when I put in oven. Delicious meatloaf.

shaken1204

06/09/2019 06:32:40 PM

The family loved it and said it was the best meatloaf ever! I doubled the recipe and made a few minor changes. Didn't have the croutons so I used 1/2 bread crumbs and 1/2 Quaker Oats. Also, I added the chili powder to the meat and not in the glaze/sauce. Lastly, I baked it in a preheated cast iron skillet. It came out nice and browned on the outside and very moist on the inside. Found the perfect meatloaf recipe.

Katie K.

02/19/2016 02:17:23 PM

It was good. I made a few changes to make things easier. For the sauce, all I did was 2 tablespoons of Brown sugar and 1/3 cup of ketchup. That's it, and it was great! I found that recipe a long time ago and won't do any other now. Also, I put the salt in the meatloaf, and used crackers instead of croutons. It turned out great

CozyPlum7362

01/01/2016 06:24:58 PM

I followed one reviewer's advice and replaced the chili (not my favorite spice) with 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp cayenne, 2 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp paprika. I used 1 3/4 cups of bread crumbs vs. crushed croutons to make meatloaf a tiny bit firmer with the 80% lean meat. I glazed the top with the ketchup sauce. Next time I may add a little pepper and with small pieces of green peppers. Pretty good one not too wet, not too dry and spices really made it!

Allrecipes Member

01/01/2016 06:24:58 PM

karen

01/30/2017 11:46:02 AM

Loved it. Just a few changes... added finely chopped mushrooms and sautéed them with the onion prior to adding them to the ground beef. Also added a packed of Lipton soup mix for flavoring. Instead of salt, I added soy sauce to the topping. Came out great.

Kelly

09/14/2025 08:19:16 PM

I've made this recipe several times with a few changes. Cut back on amount of brown sugar. Glaze was too sweet for us. Added Worcestershire sauce to the glaze mix and eliminated the salt. Baked loaf for 50 minutes unglazed to get a browned outer coating, then glaze and put back in oven for 15 mins. Love it!

Lisa Noteasilysearchable

08/30/2025 02:26:40 PM

My kids hate meatloaf and have been very vocal about their various complaints. My only regular changes are adding some Worcestershire sauce to the ketchup mixture, using one pound 93% lean ground beef and 1 pound of ground pork, and doubling the amount of sauce I make/use so that the meatloaf isn’t dry. Sometimes I’ll add one small chopped green bell pepper, and sometimes I’ll add a can of whole corn, drained. Other times I’ll do the chopped onion and add a can or two of drained mixed vegetables. First time I made this meatloaf I made the recipe as instructed and there were complaints, ONLY until they tasted it. I made a large bread pan sized loaf. I think maybe there was enough left over for me to make a single sandwich for lunch the next day - and there were only three kids and me eating it for dinner. You can do so many things with this recipe by adding different veggies or seasonings. This is now a favorite family recipe and they actually ask for it!

Aleisha Andreasen

08/17/2025 10:31:25 PM

This is so easy and so tasty.

Amber Bird

06/06/2025 02:30:42 AM

Just had to Double it,Huge Family 🙂.

GentleJelly3519

03/26/2025 02:40:22 AM

This is about the 4th time I’ve made this meatloaf. I found this recipe a few months ago and gave it a try. My husband and I love it, and he’s a picky eater. It’s a keeper for us.

Patricia Perez

03/18/2025 08:13:15 PM

Simple, quick, and delicious.

PerkyBasil8239

03/17/2025 11:09:49 PM

I made this meatloaf with 2 lbs 88% ground beef, and 1cup of seasoned bread crumbs instead of croutons. Only added a dash of salt. I didn't alter the other ingredients. We love it!

M Garza

02/21/2025 12:52:53 AM

Followed the recipe as written. Everyone liked it. Just a bit to sweet for my taste. May try using less of the sugar next time but a keeper nonetheless!

Karen King

01/22/2025 10:05:05 PM

This was the highlight of my day.

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