Joy Of Cooking Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80% lean for moisture)
• 1/2 pound ground pork (adds tenderness and flavor)
• Optional: ground veal (can substitute ground pork or beef to adjust texture)
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs (or crushed saltines, for structure)
• 2 large eggs (beaten, for cohesion)
• 3/4 cup whole milk (to moisten breadcrumbs)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for umami depth)
• 1 teaspoon salt (balanced for seasoning)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (adds freshness)
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon prepared mustard (such as Dijon or yellow)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice for brightness)