Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1.5 lbs (approx. 700g) Ground Beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio is best for moisture).
- 1 cup Panko or Plain Breadcrumbs.
- 1/2 cup Onion, finely minced.
- 1/2 cup Green Bell Pepper, finely diced (optional).
- 1 Large Egg, lightly beaten.
- 1/4 cup Whole Milk.
- 1 tsp Salt.
- 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper.
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder.
For the BBQ Glaze:
- 1 cup BBQ Sauce (Smoky or Sweet).
- 2 tbsp Brown Sugar.
- 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard.
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, egg, milk, and spices. Mix by hand just until combined. Tip: Do not overwork the meat, or the loaf will become dense and tough.
- Shape: Transfer the mixture to your pan or shape it into a uniform loaf on your baking sheet. Ensure the height is even for consistent cooking.
- The Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Brush about half of this mixture generously over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 45 minutes.
- Final Touch: Remove from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return to the oven for another 10–15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
- Rest: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute so the slices stay intact and juicy.
