Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 red pepper, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works well)
• 3/4 cup whole milk
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 Tbsp smoked paprika
• Dried thyme
• Dried oregano
• Salt and pepper
• 1 cup grated cheese (optional)
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 Tbsp brown sugar

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
• Sauté the onion, pepper and garlic in a little butter or olive oil until soft (this removes their raw bite and adds sweetness). Let cool slightly.
• Mix breadcrumbs and milk in a small bowl and let it sit for a few minutes (this keeps the meatloaf moist).
• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion mixture, soaked breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and seasonings (and cheese if adding). Mix gently so it doesn’t become tough.
• Shape the meatloaf into a loaf shape on a baking sheet (this allows for better caramelization) or pack it into a loaf pan.
• Bake for 30 minutes.
• Mix glaze ingredients - ketchup, Worcestershire , vinegar and sugar - and brush on top.
• Bake another 30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 71°C or 160°F.
• Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Meatloaf with mashed potatoes