Cheesy Meatloaf with Cheddar & Thyme

**Instructions:**

**1. Preheat Your Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet or a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper. This will make cleanup easier and keep the meatloaf from sticking.

**2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:**
– In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them soak for about 5 minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk and become soft.
– In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef and pork. Add the soaked breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, cheddar cheese, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until fully incorporated, but be careful not to overmix, as it can make the meatloaf tough.
– Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf shape if using a baking sheet, or just smooth the top if using a loaf pan.

**3. Make the Glaze:**
– In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika. The glaze should be smooth and glossy, with a good balance of sweet and tangy flavors.

**4. Glaze the Meatloaf:**
– Brush half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf. This will create a delicious caramelized crust as the meatloaf bakes. Set the remaining glaze aside for later use.

**5. Bake the Meatloaf:**
– Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) on a meat thermometer. You can also check for doneness by cutting into the center – it should be fully cooked with no pink in the middle.
– About 15 minutes before the meatloaf is done, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Continue baking until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a golden, cheesy crust.

**6. Rest and Slice:**
– Once the meatloaf is cooked and the cheese has melted, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier.
– Slice the meatloaf into thick portions and serve with the reserved glaze on the side for dipping.

**7. Serve and Enjoy:**
– This Cheesy Meatloaf with Cheddar & Thyme pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. The cheesy topping and fragrant thyme elevate this dish, making it not only a comforting meal but also a flavorful one.

**Tips:**
– **For Extra Cheesy Goodness:** Feel free to stuff the center of the meatloaf with a layer of shredded cheddar cheese. As the meatloaf bakes, the cheese will melt inside, creating a gooey, cheesy surprise when you cut into it.
– **Make it Ahead:** This meatloaf can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply assemble the meatloaf, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
– **Freeze for Later:** You can also freeze the unbaked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 1.5 hours, or until fully cooked.

**Conclusion:**

This **Cheesy Meatloaf with Cheddar & Thyme** is a comforting, cheesy twist on the classic meatloaf that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. The combination of tender, flavorful meat, melted cheddar, and aromatic thyme creates a savory masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special Sunday meal, this meatloaf is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a comforting slice of cheesy, thyme-infused goodness!