Growing up, meatloaf night meant my dad was cooking. His version was… well, let’s just say it was memorable for the wrong reasons. Years later, I set out to create something that would change everyone’s mind about meatloaf. This recipe, with its perfectly seasoned meat and irresistible glaze, has converted even the strongest meatloaf skeptics in my family.

What You’ll Need

The Star Players:

1 pound ground beef (80/20)
1/2 pound ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs (I use Panko)
1 yellow onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 large eggs
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

That Game-Changing Glaze:

3/4 cup ketchup
1/4 cup dark brown sugar
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Few dashes hot sauce (optional)

Kitchen Gear

9×5 loaf pan
Parchment paper
Large mixing bowl
Small bowl for glaze
Measuring cups/spoons

The Method

First Things First (15 mins)
- Heat oven to 350°F
- Line pan with parchment (trust me)
- Mix up your glaze
- Chop onions super fine
The Mix (10 mins)
- Combine meats with clean hands
- Mix in everything else gently
- Don’t squeeze or overwork
- Form into loaf shape
Baking Strategy (1 hour)
- First 30 mins naked
- Add half the glaze
- 15 more mins
- Final glaze layer
- Last 15 mins until done

Real Talk Tips

Cold ingredients? Let them warm up
Want juicy meat? Don’t overpack
Glaze too sweet? Add more vinegar
Always, always let it rest 10 mins
Save some glaze for serving

Questions You Might Have

“How do I know it’s done?” 165°F on meat thermometer.

“Can I freeze it?” Absolutely! Wrap well, freeze up to 3 months.

“No ground pork?” Use all beef, but it won’t be quite as tender.

Perfect Partners

I serve mine with:

Creamy mashed potatoes
Roasted green beans
Warm dinner rolls
Extra glaze on the side
Cold beer for the adults

This meatloaf isn’t just dinner – it’s a warm hug on a plate. The kind of meal that makes everyone linger at the table a little longer. And those leftovers? They make the best sandwiches you’ve ever had.

P.S. – If anyone claims they don’t like meatloaf, serve them this. I’ve converted many skeptics with this recipe!