📖 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure your oven rack is in the middle position. Trust me on this, uneven baking is the worst!
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1.5 pounds of ground beef, 0.5 pound of ground pork, and 0.5 pound of ground veal. Using a blend of meats gives the meatloaf a richer, more complex flavor. If you can't find veal, you can substitute with more ground beef or pork, its your choice!
3. Add 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 finely chopped medium onion, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 large egg (lightly beaten), 1/4 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 to the bowl. Pro Tip: Soak your breadcrumbs in the milk for a few minutes before adding them to the mixture. This helps keep the meatloaf moist.
4. Gently mix all the ingredients together with your hands. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough. You want everything just combined, not mushed together. A gentle touch is key!
5. In a separate small bowl, prepare the glaze. Combine 1/2 cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Mix well until everything is smooth and combined. This glaze is seriously addictive!
6. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan. If you're using a baking sheet, make sure it's lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Otherwise, lightly grease your loaf pan.
7. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Reserve the remaining glaze for later. Because a second layer of glaze takes it to the next level!
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's fully cooked. Nobody wants undercooked meatloaf!
9. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return it to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbly and slightly caramelized. That caramelized glaze is what dreams are made of!
10. Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moister, more flavorful meatloaf. Patience is a virtue, my friends! Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad. Enjoy!
11. Don't you dare forget to enjoy every bite