This savory meatloaf recipe brings a homestyle touch to your dinner table, with a balance of flavors and a tender texture.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating ensures even cooking from the start.
In a sauté pan, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat and cook the onion, celery, and carrot until softened. Let them cool slightly.
Cooking the vegetables beforehand enhances their sweetness and flavor.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked vegetables, ground beef, rolled oats, egg, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, milk, and ground pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking pan.
Using a loaf pan helps maintain the shape during baking.
In a small bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, brown sugar, yellow mustard, and cider vinegar to create the glaze.
Adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the glaze to your preference.
Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Use a spoon or brush for an even coating.
Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Using a meat thermometer ensures the meatloaf is cooked through.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf moist.