Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 15-20 minutes. Set aside to cool completely.
- In a small bowl, combine warm chicken stock and breadcrumbs. Let sit for 5 minutes until breadcrumbs absorb all the liquid.
- In another small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Set glaze aside.
Assembly
- In a large mixing bowl, gently combine ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, cooled caramelized onions, beaten eggs, grated apple, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix with your hands until just combined. Don't overmix.
- Transfer mixture to prepared baking sheet and shape into a 9x5-inch loaf. Make sure the surface is smooth and even.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then brush the top and sides with half of the glaze. Continue baking for another 25-30 minutes.
- Brush with remaining glaze and bake for final 5 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Finishing
- Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute and makes slicing much easier.
- Slice with a sharp knife and serve immediately.
Notes
The meatloaf can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated before baking. Just add 10-15 minutes to cooking time if baking from cold. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and make excellent sandwiches. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months.
