Southern Nana’s Meatloaf

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• Ground beef (80/20 blend) – 2 lbs
• Breadcrumbs – 1 cup
• Onion, finely chopped – 1 medium
• Garlic, minced – 2 cloves
• Milk – 1/4 cup
• Large eggs – 2
• Worcestershire sauce – 1 tablespoon
• Salt – 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
• Dried thyme – 1/2 teaspoon
• Dried oregano – 1/2 teaspoon
• Smoked paprika – 1/2 teaspoon

For the Glaze:

• Ketchup – 1/2 cup
• Brown sugar – 2 tablespoons
• Dijon mustard – 1 tablespoon
• Apple cider vinegar – 1 tablespoon

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine the Meatloaf Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and smoked paprika until just combined—avoid overmixing.
3. Shape the Loaf:
   Place the mixture into your prepared pan and form it into a loaf shape.
4. Make the Glaze:
   In a small bowl, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
5. Add Glaze and Bake:
   Spread half of the glaze over the top of the loaf. Bake for 1 hour. Then brush on the remaining glaze and return to the oven for another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reads 160°F (71°C).
6. Rest Before Slicing:
   Let the meatloaf sit for 10 minutes before cutting to help it hold together when serving.