This classic meatloaf glaze with brown sugar is the perfect finishing touch for a hearty homemade meatloaf. Sweet, tangy, and rich with savory depth, this simple sauce comes together in minutes and transforms an ordinary meatloaf into something truly memorable. With pantry staples and a quick whisk, you’ll have a glossy, caramelized topping that enhances both flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple pantry ingredients
Everything in this glaze is likely already in your kitchen. No complicated steps or specialty items required.

Perfect balance of sweet and tangy
The brown sugar adds sweetness while vinegar and Worcestershire sauce bring just the right amount of tang.

Quick to prepare
It takes only 5 minutes to mix together, making it an easy addition while your meatloaf bakes.

Beautiful caramelized finish
When added toward the end of baking, the glaze caramelizes into a sticky, flavorful coating that locks in moisture.

Versatile
This glaze isn’t just for meatloaf. It works wonderfully on burgers, meatballs, and even grilled chicken.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

¾ cup ketchup
1 ½ teaspoons white vinegar
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 ½ teaspoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

1. Combine the ingredients
   In a small mixing bowl, add the ketchup, white vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
2. Whisk until smooth
   Whisk thoroughly until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
3. Add to the meatloaf
   When your meatloaf has about 15–20 minutes of cooking time remaining, remove it from the oven and carefully spread the glaze evenly over the top.
4. Finish baking
   Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F and the glaze is caramelized.
5. Rest before slicing
   Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes cleaner slices.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time (after glazing): 20 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes (glaze only)
Servings: 8 servings (approximately 2 tablespoons per serving)
Yield: About 1 cup of glaze
Calories: Approximately 30 calories per serving

Variations

Make it sweeter
Increase the brown sugar to 1 tablespoon for a more pronounced sweetness.

Add heat
Stir in 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or a small dash of chili sauce for a subtle kick.

Boost the tang
Add an extra ½ teaspoon of white vinegar for more sharpness.

Smoky flavor
Mix in 1 tablespoon of barbecue sauce for a slightly smoky depth.

Thicker glaze
Simmer the mixture in a small saucepan for 2–3 minutes before applying if you prefer a thicker consistency.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration
Store leftover glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing
The glaze can be frozen in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.

Reheating
Warm gently in the microwave in 10–15 second intervals, stirring between each, until slightly loosened. You can also warm it in a small saucepan over low heat.

Leftover meatloaf
Store glazed meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 325°F or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I put the glaze on the meatloaf before baking?

It’s best to add the glaze during the last 15–20 minutes of baking. Adding it too early can cause the sugars to burn before the meatloaf is fully cooked.

Can I use this glaze on turkey meatloaf?

Yes, this glaze works perfectly with ground turkey, chicken, or beef meatloaf.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Simply double all the ingredient measurements to make 2 cups of glaze.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

You can substitute soy sauce in equal amounts for a similar savory depth.

How do I prevent the glaze from burning?

Apply it near the end of baking and ensure your oven temperature isn’t too high. Stick to the recommended cooking time.

Can I make this glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Is this glaze very sweet?

It has a balanced sweetness. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the brown sugar to 1 teaspoon.

Can I cook the glaze before adding it?

Yes, briefly simmering it for a few minutes can deepen the flavors and slightly thicken the texture.

How much glaze should I put on the meatloaf?

Use enough to coat the entire top in an even layer. The full recipe makes enough for a standard 2-pound meatloaf.

Can I use this glaze for other dishes?

Yes, it’s delicious on burgers, meatballs, sandwiches, and grilled chicken.

Conclusion

This classic meatloaf glaze with brown sugar is proof that a simple sauce can completely elevate a comfort food favorite. With its sweet, tangy, and savory balance, it creates a glossy caramelized finish that enhances flavor and moisture in every bite. Quick to prepare and endlessly versatile, this glaze will quickly become your go-to topping for homemade meatloaf and beyond.

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