📖 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial to ensure even cooking throughout the meatloaf. I always double-check with an oven thermometer, because, you know, ovens can be temperamental!
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 pounds of ground beef and 1 pound of ground pork. Using both meats adds depth of flavor and keeps the meatloaf from being too dense. If you only want to use beef, that’s fine, but trust me, the pork makes a difference. Don't be afraid to get your hands in there! It’s the best way to mix everything properly.
3. Add 1 cup of breadcrumbs to the meat mixture. These act as a binder and help retain moisture. You can use store-bought breadcrumbs, but I prefer making my own by pulsing a few slices of stale bread in a food processor. It adds a nice texture and flavor.
4. Finely chop 1 medium onion and mince 2 cloves of garlic. Sauté them in a skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes. This step mellows out the flavors and prevents them from being too overpowering in the meatloaf. Let the onion and garlic cool slightly before adding them to the meat mixture. You don't want to cook the meat!
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. The Worcestershire sauce adds a savory depth, while the thyme provides a hint of earthy aroma. Don't skip these!
6. Pour the egg mixture over the meat mixture and gently combine everything with your hands. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf. You want to mix until just combined – a little lumpy is okay. It’s better to undermix than overmix.
7. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. I like to use parchment paper to line the pan first – it makes cleanup a breeze!
8. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. This glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish that is simply irresistible. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less brown sugar.
9. Spread the ketchup glaze evenly over the meatloaf. Make sure to cover the entire surface for maximum flavor.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Insert it into the center of the loaf, avoiding the sides. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it with foil.
11. Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf. Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad. Enjoy!