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Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. - Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined — avoid overmixing, which can make the meatloaf dense. - Shape and Place in Pan
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan. - Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. - Bake
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). During the last 10 minutes of baking, spread the remaining glaze on top for a glossy, flavorful finish. - Rest and Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold together and ensures every slice is juicy and tender.
Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf
- Use a mix of meats: Combining beef and pork creates extra juiciness and flavor.
- Don’t overmix: Gentle mixing keeps the texture tender.
- Make ahead: Meatloaf can be shaped the night before and baked the next day — just cover and refrigerate.
- Customize the glaze: Add a little hot sauce, smoked paprika, or honey for a unique twist.
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