Ultimate Comfort Food: Delicious Meatloaf Recipe with Ketchup and Brown Sugar for Family Dinners

#### Meatloaf Recipe Ketchup and Brown SugarIf you’re searching for the perfect comfort food that combines savory flavors with a hint of sweetness, look no……

#### Meatloaf Recipe Ketchup and Brown Sugar

If you’re searching for the perfect comfort food that combines savory flavors with a hint of sweetness, look no further than this delightful meatloaf recipe ketchup and brown sugar. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of ketchup and brown sugar creates a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully, adding depth and richness to the meatloaf.

#### Ingredients for Meatloaf

To make this scrumptious meatloaf, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for added flavor)

- 1 cup breadcrumbs (can be seasoned or plain)

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 egg

- ½ cup milk

- 1 teaspoon salt

- ½ teaspoon black pepper

- ½ cup ketchup

- ¼ cup brown sugar

- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

#### Preparation Steps

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly.

2. **Mix the Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until well combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

3. **Shape the Meatloaf**: Transfer the meat mixture to a greased loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure it is compact and well-formed.

4. **Prepare the Glaze**: In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. This mixture will serve as the glaze that adds flavor and moisture to your meatloaf.

5. **Apply the Glaze**: Spread half of the ketchup and brown sugar mixture over the top of the meatloaf. Reserve the other half for later.

6. **Bake**: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour. After 30 minutes, you can brush the remaining glaze on top for an extra layer of flavor.

7. **Check for Doneness**: To ensure your meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach at least 160°F (71°C).

8. **Rest and Serve**: Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or green beans.

#### Why This Meatloaf Recipe Stands Out

This meatloaf recipe ketchup and brown sugar stands out because of its perfect balance of flavors. The sweetness from the brown sugar complements the tanginess of the ketchup, creating a glaze that not only enhances the meatloaf but also makes it visually appealing.

Moreover, this recipe is versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients, such as chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even cheese. It’s also a great way to use up leftover ingredients you have in your pantry.

#### Conclusion

In conclusion, this meatloaf recipe ketchup and brown sugar is a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to become a family favorite. The blend of flavors and the ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for busy home cooks. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a slice of comfort food that brings everyone to the table!