Meatloaf

Ingredients:

For the meatloaf:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (you can also use a mix of ground beef, pork, and veal)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup milk
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

For the glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Allow them to sit for a few minutes to soak.
3. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, and Worcestershire sauce to the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Use your hands to mix the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
5. Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce to make the glaze.
7. Spread about half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
8. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes.
9. After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
10. Continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (70°C) and the top is nicely caramelized.
11. Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
12. Slice the meatloaf and serve it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, vegetables, or a salad.

Enjoy your homemade classic meatloaf!