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Sweet Savory Meatloaf: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

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A classic, comforting meatloaf made with a blend of ground beef and pork, seasoned with herbs and spices, and topped with a sweet and savory glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend is ideal)
  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain, unseasoned)
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole milk preferred)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon molasses
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Soak the Breadcrumbs: In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5-10 minutes.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and green bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic during the last minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Combine the Meats: In the bowl with the soaked breadcrumbs, add ground beef and ground pork. Gently break up the meat.
  4. Add the Remaining Ingredients: Add the sautéed vegetables (cooled), beaten eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the meat mixture.
  5. Mix Gently but Thoroughly: Gently mix all ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
  8. Shape the Meatloaf: Gently transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Shape into an even loaf.
  9. Combine Glaze Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, molasses, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika until smooth.
  10. Apply the First Layer of Glaze: Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  11. Bake the Meatloaf: Bake for 60 minutes.
  12. Apply the Second Layer of Glaze: Remove from oven and spread the remaining glaze evenly over the top.
  13. Continue Baking: Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  14. Rest Before Slicing: Let rest in the loaf pan for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing.
  15. Slice the Meatloaf: Slice into even slices.
  16. Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through.
  • Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture.
  • Add more vegetables like carrots, celery, or mushrooms.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
  • Experiment with different ground meats like turkey or chicken.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
  • Prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Meatloaf freezes beautifully! You can freeze the entire meatloaf, baked or unbaked, or individual slices.

Find it online: https://anasrecipes.com/sweet-savory-meatloaf/