📖 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking throughout.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1.5 pounds of ground beef, 0.5 pound of ground pork (or turkey for a leaner option), and 1 cup of breadcrumbs. Use your hands to gently mix the meats together. Ground pork adds a richness that ground beef can't acheive.
3. Add 1 finely chopped medium onion, 2 minced cloves of garlic, and 1 diced bell pepper (any color) to the meat mixture. These aromatics add depth of flavor and moisture.
4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Don't skimp on the seasonings—they're essential for a flavorful meatloaf!
5. Pour the wet ingredients over the meat mixture. Gently mix everything together with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf. I once overmixed it so much that it ended up super dry!
6. In a separate bowl, prepare the glaze by combining 1/2 cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. This glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish.
7. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. You can also form it freeform on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.
9. Bake for 60 minutes. After 60 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
10. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's fully cooked.
11. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf. Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.