Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for moisture)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, pepper, and paprika.
  4. Using your hands or a spatula, mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure a tender meatloaf.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan. Press down gently to form an even loaf.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld (optional but recommended).
  7. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
  8. Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
  9. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 1 hour, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  10. In the last 10 minutes of baking, spread the remaining glaze over the loaf.
  11. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to maintain juiciness.