Old fashioned Momma’s Meatloaf

Kitchen Equipment:

• Mixing bowl
• Loaf pan (9×5 inches)
• Large baking sheet (if not using a loaf pan)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil (optional)

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Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and thyme (if using).
2. Mix Well: Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense meatloaf.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

1. Transfer to Loaf Pan: Spoon the meat mixture into a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. If you don’t have a loaf pan, you can shape it into a loaf on a lined baking sheet.
2. Smooth the Top: Press down gently to ensure the loaf is even and smooth on top.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

1. Combine Glaze Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
2. Spread Glaze: Spoon half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf

1. Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
2. Add Remaining Glaze: In the last 10-15 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze on top.
3. Finish Baking: Return to the oven and bake until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Rest: Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps to keep it moist.
2. Slice and Serve: Slice the meatloaf into thick pieces and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy!

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Tips and Tricks:

1. Use Lean Meat: For the best flavor and texture, use ground beef that has a good balance of fat, like 80/20. Avoid very lean beef, as it may result in a dry meatloaf.
2. Customize Flavors: Feel free to add in your favorite herbs or spices, such as parsley, basil, or Italian seasoning, to give your meatloaf a unique twist.
3. Moisture Matters: If you want an extra moist meatloaf, you can add grated carrots or finely chopped bell peppers to the mixture.
4. Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just shape it and bake when you’re ready to serve.

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