This classic Southern meatloaf is a hearty dish that combines a blend of meats with aromatic vegetables and a sweet-tangy glaze, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
1 medium onion
1 medium bell pepper
1 cup oats
1/2 cup milk
2 large eggs
2 cloves minced garlic
1 tablespoon mustard
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1 pound ground beef
1 pound ground pork
1 pound ground veal
Method
In a bowl, create a rich glaze by blending ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
Set your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9x5-inch loaf pans by either greasing them with cooking spray or lining them with aluminum foil.
In a microwave-safe bowl, mix diced onion and bell pepper. Cover the bowl and microwave for 1 to 2 minutes until they soften, then allow to cool.
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine oats, milk, eggs, minced garlic, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, seasoned salt, black pepper, and a dash of hot sauce. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated. Gently fold in the cooled onion and bell pepper mixture.
Add the ground beef, pork, and veal to the bowl. Using your hands (preferably gloved), mix everything together until the mixture is uniform and well combined.
Evenly distribute the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pans, pressing it down firmly. Brush each meatloaf with a quarter of the glaze, reserving the rest for later.
Place the loaves in the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes. After this time, take them out to drain any excess fat. Brush the remaining glaze over each loaf and return them to the oven for another 10 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 160°F (70°C) in the center.
Once done, let the meatloaf rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.