Southern Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Brown Sugar Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon mustard (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make the Meatloaf:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, garlic, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the loaf tender.
3. Shape and Glaze:
   Form the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and mustard to make the glaze. Spread half of it evenly over the meatloaf.
4. Bake:
   Bake uncovered for 45 minutes. Remove from the oven, spread the remaining glaze on top, and return to bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
   Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic Southern-style meal that’s hearty, comforting, and full of flavor.