Meatloaf Everyone Will Love

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Sauté Vegetables and Garlic: In a small pan over medium heat, sauté the chopped onions, red peppers, shredded carrots, and chopped garlic until softened and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes). Set aside to cool slightly.

Mix Meat: In a large mixing bowl (or using a stand mixer), combine the ground beef and ground pork thoroughly.

Add Remaining Ingredients: To the meat mixture, add the eggs, vegetable juice (or substitute), ketchup, oats, seasoned bread crumbs, brown sugar, sautéed vegetable mixture, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Prepare Baking Setup: Line a cooling rack with parchment paper and place it over a baking sheet to catch drippings. Use a knife to pierce holes in the parchment paper, allowing any fat to drain.

Shape and Bake Loaves: Divide the meat mixture into two equal portions and shape each into a loaf. Place the loaves on the parchment-lined cooling rack. Bake for 50 minutes.

Prepare Sauce: While the meatloaf bakes, mix together the sauce ingredients in a small bowl: brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Add optional mustard, vinegar, smoked paprika, and hot sauce if desired.

Glaze and Bake Again: After 50 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and generously brush the sauce over each loaf, including the sides. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes.

Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.