Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1.5 pounds (680g) ground beef (preferably a mix of lean and fatty beef)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (fresh or dried)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (red or green)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup ketchup or tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them sit for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk and soften.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped bell pepper, chopped parsley, eggs, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano.
3. Mix and Shape:
- Gently mix the ingredients together with your hands until they are well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish.
4. Make the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard to create the glaze.
5. Glaze the Meatloaf:
- Brush the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, covering it evenly.
6. Bake:
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the meatloaf is cooked through. You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
7. Rest and Serve:
- Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
8. Serve:
- Slice the meatloaf and serve it with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes, vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your classic homemade meatloaf! It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a family dinner.