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Meatloaf with Sweet Brown Sugar Glaze

Meatloaf with Sweet Brown Sugar Glaze


  • Author: Marcus
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Meatloaf with Sweet Brown Sugar Glaze combines smoky turkey bacon and a rich, glossy glaze made with natural gelling agents for a moist, tender, and flavorful dinner. Perfectly balanced with sweet and savory flavors, it is easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients and is ideal for family meals or entertaining guests.


Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, finely chopped
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste (natural)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or thyme, chopped

Sweet Brown Sugar Glaze

  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
  • 2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 tsp natural gelling agent

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground turkey, finely chopped smoked turkey bacon, diced onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, tomato paste (natural), salt, and black pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly to blend all ingredients evenly without overworking the meat to ensure tenderness.
  2. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a loaf or baking pan and shape into a loaf. Press firmly to avoid cracks while keeping the texture light to prevent density.
  3. Make the Sweet Brown Sugar Glaze: In a small saucepan, whisk together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and natural gelling agent. Heat gently while stirring constantly until the glaze thickens and becomes shiny.
  4. Apply the Glaze: Brush the glaze generously over the top of the shaped meatloaf, ensuring an even coating for a caramelized finish.
  5. Bake the Meatloaf: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Halfway through baking, brush with more glaze to build layers of flavor.
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute for a juicy and tender bite.

Notes

  • Mix ingredients just until combined to keep the meatloaf tender and moist.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  • Allow the meatloaf to rest after baking to hold together better when sliced.
  • Apply glaze twice: halfway through baking and at the end for a richer, stickier coating.
  • Use smoked turkey bacon for subtle smoky flavor without overpowering the dish.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 1/6 of loaf)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: meatloaf, sweet brown sugar glaze, smoked turkey bacon, savory, gluten free, comfort food, baked meatloaf, dinner, family meal