Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Sauté the onion and bell pepper in a skillet over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, sautéed onions and peppers, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and spices. Mix thoroughly yet gently.
  4. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish or loaf pan. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the glaze until smooth.
  6. Spread the glaze evenly over the meatloaf before placing it in the oven.
  7. Bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Check for doneness using a meat thermometer if available.
  8. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.