Description
A delicious and comforting Meatloaf with Sweet Brown Sugar Glaze that balances smoky, savory, and sweet flavors. Made with ground beef, smoked turkey bacon, a natural gelling agent, and a luscious sweet brown sugar glaze, this tender, juicy meatloaf is perfect for family dinners or meal prep with simple wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Base
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
- 3/4 cup plant-based breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 plant-based eggs
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Sweet Brown Sugar Glaze
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (natural)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (natural)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Finely chop the onion, garlic, and parsley. Cook the smoked turkey bacon until just crisp, then chop into small pieces to add texture and flavor.
- Mix the Meatloaf Base: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped bacon, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, parsley, and plant-based eggs. Add vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and natural gelling agent. Mix gently and thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined without overworking the meat.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture into a lined baking dish or loaf pan. Shape it evenly and press lightly for a compact form to ensure even baking.
- Prepare the Sweet Brown Sugar Glaze: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar (natural), tomato paste (natural), and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Brush the glaze generously over the top of the shaped meatloaf to create a caramelized finish.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Halfway through baking, baste again with the sweet brown sugar glaze to build layers of flavor.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender slices that hold together well.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for better binding and even cooking.
- Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid a dense texture.
- Use a thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is properly cooked and tender.
- Basting frequently with the glaze creates a sticky and flavorful crust.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing for cleaner, juicier portions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/6 of meatloaf)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: meatloaf, sweet brown sugar glaze, ground beef, smoked turkey bacon, comfort food, family dinner, plant-based eggs, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, natural gelling agent