Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or ground turkey for a healthier option)
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- For the glaze:
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine ground meat, bread crumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- While baking, whisk together brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard to prepare the glaze.
- After 30 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf and brush generously with the glaze.
- Return to oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the glaze is caramelized and bubbly.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Use lean ground turkey or chicken for a lower-fat version but consider adding moisture to prevent dryness.
- Enhance flavor by adding smoked paprika or chili powder to the glaze.
- Crispy bacon bits can be sprinkled on top before serving for extra indulgence.
- For storage, keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free option available
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg