Soulful Meatloaf

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

1. 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20 for flavor and juiciness)
2. 1 large egg
3. 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably fresh or panko for a lighter texture)
4. 1/2 cup milk
5. 1 medium onion, finely chopped
6. 2 cloves garlic, minced
7. 1 tsp salt
8. 1/2 tsp black pepper
9. 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
10. 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
11. 1 tbsp ketchup (plus more for glazing)
12. 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Glaze:

1. 1/4 cup ketchup
2. 2 tbsp brown sugar
3. 1 tbsp Dijon mustard or yellow mustard
4. 1 tsp apple cider vinegar or white vinegar

Directions:

1. Get the meatloaf mixture ready.

• Set the oven temperature to 175°C (350°F).
• Ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, and thyme (or Italian spice) should all be combined in a large mixing basin.
• Until everything is uniformly distributed, mix everything together. Avoid overmixing as this may cause the meatloaf to become tough.
• Form the ingredients into a loaf and put it in an oiled loaf pan or on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.

2. Get the Glaze Ready:
Whisk the mustard, vinegar, brown sugar, and ketchup in a small bowl until smooth and completely blended.
Using a spatula, evenly distribute about half of the glaze over the meatloaf’s surface.
3. Bake the Meatloaf: Put the meatloaf in the oven that has been warmed, and bake it for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
For a glossy, tasty finish, brush the meatloaf with the remaining glaze during the final ten minutes of baking.
4. Rest and Serve: After the meatloaf is finished, take it out of the oven and let it a good five to ten minutes to rest before slicing. It becomes more tender as a result of the juices being re-distributed.
Cut into thick slices and serve with your preferred side dish, roasted veggies, or mashed potatoes.
Advice:
Mixture of Meat: You can mix ground beef with ground turkey or pork for more flavor. This preserves the meatloaf’s moist texture while making it slightly lighter.
Vegetable Add-ins: You can add some sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the beef mixture to add more flavor. you ensure them combine well, just be sure you cut them finely.
Freezing: Before baking, meatloaf can be prepared in advance and frozen. Store it in the freezer for up to three months after wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil and plastic wrap. When it’s done, bake it from frozen for approximately an hour at 350°F, or until the internal temperature hits 160°F.
Soulful Meatloaf’s warm, savory flavors and cozy textures make it more than simply a meal; it’s an experience that unites people. Have fun!