Classic American Meatloaf

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Sauté Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet.

Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 4 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Remove the skillet from heat and let the vegetables cool for 5 minutes.

Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.

Stir the glaze ingredients together until the sugar is fully dissolved.

Mix the Meatloaf

In a large mixing bowl, lightly beat the 2 eggs.

Add the beef broth, 2 tablespoons ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and yellow mustard to the eggs.

Stir the wet ingredients together until combined.

Add the breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme to the bowl.

Add the cooled sautéed vegetables to the bowl.

Add the ground beef to the bowl.

Using your hands, gently mix everything together just until combined — do not overwork the meat.

Shape and Glaze

Transfer the meat mixture to a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil.

Shape the mixture into a loaf roughly 9 inches long and 4 inches wide.

Spoon half of the glaze evenly over the top and sides of the loaf.

Bake

Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.

Add Remaining Glaze

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spoon the remaining glaze over the top.

Finish Baking

Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until the internal temperature reads 160°F.

Rest and Serve

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Slice into 6 portions and serve warm.