This Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze is a comforting and flavorful twist on the classic meatloaf recipe. The rich combination of ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, and carrots creates a hearty and juicy loaf, while the crumbled bread, eggs, and milk give it a perfect texture. The sweet and tangy glaze made from brown sugar, ketchup, and mustard adds a delightful balance of flavors to the savory meatloaf. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, this meatloaf is easy to prepare and always satisfying.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 large eggs
- ⅔ cup milk
- 2 teaspoons salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 slices bread, crumbled
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded carrot
For the Glaze:
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon prepared yellow mustard
Steps to Make Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan or baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until fully combined. The eggs and milk act as binding agents, while the seasonings enhance the flavor.
- Crumble the bread slices into the egg mixture, allowing them to soak up the liquid. Stir gently to combine. This helps keep the meatloaf moist and tender.
- Add the Ground Beef and Vegetables:
- Add the ground beef, chopped onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and shredded carrot to the egg and bread mixture. The shredded carrots not only add a hint of sweetness but also boost the nutritional value of the dish.
- Mix everything together using your hands or a wooden spoon until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
- Shape the Meatloaf:
- Transfer the meatloaf mixture into your prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet.
- Press the mixture down firmly to ensure it holds its shape during baking.
- Prepare the Brown Sugar Glaze:
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, ketchup, and prepared yellow mustard. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
- Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf, covering the entire surface. This glaze will caramelize as the meatloaf bakes, adding a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory beef.
- Bake the Meatloaf:
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You can check the temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- If the top of the meatloaf starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from burning.
- Rest and Serve:
- Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Resting helps the juices redistribute throughout the meatloaf, ensuring every slice is moist and flavorful.
- Serve the meatloaf with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sodium: 890 mg
- Sugar: 8 g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Keep in mind that leaner meats like turkey or chicken may result in a drier meatloaf, so you may want to add an extra egg or more shredded cheese for moisture.
- Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, simply add the glaze and bake as directed.
- What can I use instead of bread crumbs? If you don’t have bread on hand, you can use panko bread crumbs, crushed crackers, or even oatmeal as a substitute. Just make sure to adjust the liquid slightly if needed to achieve the right texture.
- Can I freeze this meatloaf? Yes, meatloaf freezes well. You can freeze it before or after baking. To freeze before baking, shape the loaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, add the glaze, and bake as instructed. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, then wrap and freeze. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Can I add other vegetables to the meatloaf? Definitely! You can add finely chopped or grated vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to the meatloaf mixture. Just be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the vegetables to prevent the meatloaf from becoming too wet.
Tips for Making the Best Meatloaf
- Use Fresh Bread Crumbs: Soaking fresh bread crumbs in the egg and milk mixture helps to retain moisture in the meatloaf, ensuring that it stays tender and juicy.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the meat with the other ingredients, avoid overmixing. Overworking the meat can lead to a tough and dense meatloaf.
- Customize the Glaze: If you want a bit more sweetness in the glaze, you can add a touch of honey or maple syrup. For a spicier kick, try adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
- Let it Rest: Letting the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking is crucial for maintaining its moisture. Cutting into it too early can cause the juices to run out, leaving the meatloaf dry.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure that the meatloaf is cooked all the way through, use a meat thermometer to check that it has reached an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Storage Tips
- In the Refrigerator: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave before serving.
- In the Freezer: Meatloaf can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap the cooked or uncooked meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef, cheddar cheese, and shredded vegetables with a sweet and tangy glaze. It’s an easy, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes or a simple salad, this meatloaf is sure to satisfy with its tender texture, cheesy filling, and flavorful glaze. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and can be made ahead of time for convenience. Enjoy this hearty and satisfying dish with loved ones!