Best Ever Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf 

This meatloaf is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food, featuring a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze that elevates its flavor profile. The combination of lean ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and a rich glaze makes it a family favorite and a perfect centerpiece for any dinner table.

 Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 pound lean ground beef (80/20 blend)

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)

• 2 large eggs

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup milk

• 2 tablespoons ketchup

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze:

• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

• 2 tablespoons ketchup

• 1/2 tablespoon brown sugar

 Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

3. Mix Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, sautéed onion and garlic, milk, ketchup, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

4. Shape Loaf: Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a lined baking sheet.

5. Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, ketchup, and brown sugar until smooth.

6. Glaze Meatloaf: Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

7. Bake: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

8. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with additional glaze if desired.

 Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 223 kcal

• Protein: 21 g

• Carbohydrates: 19 g

• Fat: 6 g

• Saturated Fat: 3 g

• Cholesterol: 81 mg

• Sodium: 622 mg

• Sugar: 6 g

• Fiber: 1 g

• Calcium: 78 mg

• Iron: 3 mg