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1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- While the oven preheats, finely chop the onion and green bell pepper. Mince the garlic cloves. A smaller dice will ensure even distribution in the meatloaf, which contributes to its overall tenderness and flavor.
2. Prepare the Flavor Base
- In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Add in the minced garlic, stirring frequently for another minute. This quick sauté helps enhance the flavors of the vegetables, making them sweeter and softer, which will blend smoothly into the meatloaf mixture.
3. Combine the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Adding pork to the beef gives a softer texture and a deeper flavor.
- Pour in the breadcrumbs and whole milk, stirring lightly. Let this mixture sit for 1-2 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to soak up the milk. This trick is key to achieving a moist meatloaf, as the milk-soaked breadcrumbs lock in moisture during baking.
- Add the sautéed vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, ketchup, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using) to the meat mixture.
- Crack the egg into the bowl. Using your hands, gently mix the ingredients until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
4. Shape the Meatloaf
- Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared baking sheet. Shape it into a loaf, roughly 8×4 inches in size. Press lightly to ensure it holds together but avoid compressing it too much, which can make the meatloaf tougher.
5. Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. This glaze adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the savory meatloaf.
- Brush about half of the glaze over the meatloaf, reserving the other half for later. This initial layer will start to caramelize as the meatloaf bakes, creating a sticky-sweet topping.
6. Bake the Meatloaf
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove it from the oven and brush with the remaining glaze for a second layer of flavor.
- Return the meatloaf to the oven and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Let it Rest
- Once fully baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Resting the meatloaf is crucial, as it allows the juices to redistribute, giving you a tender and moist slice with every cut.
8. Serve and Enjoy
- Slice the meatloaf into 1-inch thick portions, revealing its soft, tender center. Serve it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad to complete the comforting meal.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Add Vegetables: For a twist, try incorporating grated carrots or zucchini into the meat mixture. These add an extra layer of moisture and nutritional value without altering the flavor significantly.
- Cheesy Center: For a fun surprise, add a handful of shredded cheese in the center of the meatloaf before shaping it. The cheese melts as it bakes, creating a gooey, cheesy middle that’s irresistible.
- Leftovers: Meatloaf tastes even better the next day! Use leftovers in sandwiches or crumble it over a salad for an easy lunch.
Why This Meatloaf Will Make You Feel Better
This meatloaf isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience. From the hearty texture of the meat to the sweetness of the glaze, each bite brings a sense of warmth and comfort. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a meal that reminds you of home, this recipe is designed to lift your spirits and satisfy your hunger.
