Old fashioned momma s meatloaf

### Directions

#### Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. This will ensure it’s hot and ready for the meatloaf when you’re finished preparing it.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the **ground beef** and **ground pork**. Add the **chopped onion**, **minced garlic**, **breadcrumbs**, and **milk**. Crack the **egg** into the mixture and pour in the **Worcestershire sauce** and **ketchup**. Season with **salt**, **black pepper**, **thyme**, and **oregano**. Use your hands (or a spoon) to mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overwork the meat—this can lead to a dense meatloaf.

#### Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the meat mixture into a lightly greased loaf pan. If you prefer a more rustic look, you can also form the meatloaf into a free-form loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Either way, shape the loaf so that it’s evenly distributed and about 2 to 3 inches tall for even cooking.

#### Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, mix together the **ketchup**, **brown sugar**, **Dijon mustard**, and **apple cider vinegar**. This glaze is key to giving the meatloaf its signature sweet and tangy flavor. Stir the ingredients until smooth, then brush a generous layer of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.

#### Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about **1 hour**, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of **160°F (71°C)**. If you like a crispy glaze, you can brush the meatloaf with an additional layer of glaze halfway through the baking time.

#### Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for **10 minutes** before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and flavorful. Garnish with chopped **parsley** for a pop of color and freshness.

### Why You’ll Love Old-Fashioned Momma’s Meatloaf

There’s something about **Old-Fashioned Momma’s Meatloaf** that’s more than just a meal—it’s a hug in a dish. Here are a few reasons why this recipe has stood the test of time:

– **Hearty & Comforting**: The combination of beef and pork creates a perfect balance of flavor and tenderness. The **breadcrumbs** and **milk** keep the meatloaf moist and tender, while the **onions** and **garlic** add a savory depth.
– **Sweet & Tangy Glaze**: The homemade glaze made of **ketchup**, **brown sugar**, **mustard**, and **apple cider vinegar** gives the meatloaf a delicious sweet-and-tangy finish that’s simply irresistible.
– **Versatile**: While this recipe is great as is, you can easily tweak it to fit your taste. Try adding **cheese** (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan) into the meat mixture or top the meatloaf with sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor. You can even swap the **ground pork** for other ground meats like turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
– **Perfect for Leftovers**: This meatloaf makes excellent leftovers, and it even tastes better the next day! You can serve it with mashed potatoes, on a sandwich, or alongside a fresh salad for a quick, satisfying meal.
– **Family-Friendly**: The mild, comforting flavors of this meatloaf make it perfect for picky eaters. The sweet glaze is especially appealing to kids, while adults will appreciate the savory, well-seasoned meat.

### Tips for the Best Meatloaf

– **Don’t Overmix the Meat**: It’s important to mix the ingredients just until combined. Overworking the meatloaf can result in a dense texture.
– **Use Lean Meat**: While a little fat is necessary for flavor and moisture, too much fat can make the meatloaf greasy. **80% lean ground beef** is a good choice for balance.
– **Rest Before Slicing**: Letting the meatloaf rest after it’s done cooking ensures it stays juicy. This step is crucial for getting clean slices and preventing the juices from running out.
– **Add Extra Flavor**: For extra depth of flavor, you can sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the meat mixture. This adds sweetness and a caramelized note to the meatloaf.

### Conclusion

**Old-Fashioned Momma’s Meatloaf** is a classic, hearty dish that brings both nostalgia and comfort to the table. It’s simple to make yet full of rich flavors that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting friends, or meal prepping for the week, this meatloaf recipe is a must-try.

The tender, juicy meatloaf paired with its sweet and tangy glaze is a winning combination. So, roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and get ready to make a dish that’s as comforting as a hug from mom. It’s the kind of meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!