My Mum's Gone Gourmet: Best Meatloaf Recipe, Elevated!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 1 lb (450g) ground pork (optional, but adds flavour and moisture. Can substitute for more beef)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced (approx. 1 cup / 150g)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (approx. 2 tsp)
• 1 cup (120g) panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup (60ml) Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley (optional, for freshness)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, to enhance the smoky flavour)