Glazed Meatloaf with Caramelized Onions

Glazed Meatloaf with Caramelized Onions

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

For the Caramelized Onions:

• 2 cups pearl onions or small onions, peeled
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatloaf:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes to soften.
   • Add ground meat, eggs, chopped onion, garlic, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
2. Shape and Bake:
   • Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a loaf pan.
   • Bake for 30 minutes.
3. Prepare the Glaze:
   • In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
4. Glaze the Meatloaf:
   • After 30 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf and spread the glaze evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F).
5. Caramelize the Onions:
   • Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the pearl onions and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   • Sprinkle sugar and a pinch of salt over the onions. Stir and cook for another 10-15 minutes until golden and caramelized.
   • Add balsamic vinegar and stir to coat.
6. Assemble and Serve:
   • Once the meatloaf is cooked, top it with the caramelized onions.
   • Garnish with fresh thyme if desired and serve hot with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.