Classic Meatloaf with Sweet Ketchup Glaze: A Hearty and Flavorful Meal

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan if preferred.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Add the breadcrumbs, milk, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and paprika. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense meatloaf.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
   • Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet. Make sure to form it evenly so that it cooks uniformly.
4. Prepare the Sweet Ketchup Glaze:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and apple cider vinegar (if using). Stir until the glaze is smooth and the sugar is dissolved.
5. Glaze the Meatloaf:
   • Spread a generous amount of the sweet ketchup glaze over the top of the meatloaf, making sure to coat it evenly. Save a little glaze to serve alongside the meatloaf once it’s cooked.
6. Bake the Meatloaf:
   • Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. Halfway through baking, you can brush the meatloaf with more glaze if you prefer an extra glossy finish.
7. Rest and Slice:
   • Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and ensures each slice stays moist.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Slice the meatloaf and serve with your favorite sides—mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Drizzle with the remaining sweet ketchup glaze for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf

• Don’t Overmix: Overworking the meat mixture can lead to a tough meatloaf. Mix just until combined, and avoid squeezing the meat tightly.
• Use Lean Meat: Ground beef with a little fat (80/20) will keep your meatloaf moist. You can substitute part of the beef with ground turkey if you want a leaner version, but be mindful that turkey can be drier.
• Let It Rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest after baking to ensure the juices redistribute evenly throughout the meat, preventing a dry result when you slice into it.
• Add Vegetables: You can sneak in finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini into the meat mixture for added nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

There’s no denying the charm of a classic meatloaf—it’s hearty, comforting, and always satisfying. The sweet ketchup glaze adds the perfect finishing touch, giving the meatloaf a glossy, flavorful coating that everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or serving it as leftovers for lunch the next day, this dish is bound to become a beloved favorite.

So, the next time you’re craving a hearty meal that will warm your soul, give this Classic Meatloaf with Sweet Ketchup Glaze a try. You won’t be disappointed!

I hope this recipe helps you create the perfect meatloaf! Let me know how it turns out or if you need more tips.