Meatloaf for Meatloaf Haters

Transform dinnertime for even the biggest skeptics with “Meatloaf for Meatloaf Haters,” the ultimate recipe that reinvents this classic dish with a modern twist. Packed with flavor and hidden veggies like grated carrot and zucchini, this meatloaf achieves a perfect balance of juicy ground beef and pork, enhanced by aromatic spices, fresh parsley, and a tangy glaze made from ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Unlike traditional dry meatloaf, this recipe features a milk-soaked breadcrumb base for an ultra-moist texture that’s anything but boring. Ready in just 20 minutes of prep and baked to perfection in under an hour, this comforting dish is ideal for picky eaters and crowd-pleasing family dinners. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp salad for a meal that will make everyone a believer. Healthy, hearty, and completely irresistible, this is the meatloaf recipe you've been waiting for!

Nutriscore Rating: 64/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:80 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds Ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 0.5 pounds Ground pork
• 1 large Yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 large Carrot, grated
• 1 medium Zucchini, grated
• 3 Garlic cloves, minced
• 0.75 cups Panko breadcrumbs
• 0.5 cups Whole milk
• 2 large Eggs
• 0.25 cups Fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 0.25 cups Ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1.5 teaspoons Salt
• 1 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoons Smoked paprika
• 0.5 cups Ketchup (for glaze)
• 2 tablespoons Brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Apple cider vinegar

Directions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion, carrot, zucchini, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Step 3

In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and milk. Stir and let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb the liquid.

Step 4

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, cooked vegetables, soaked breadcrumbs, eggs, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Use your hands to gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

Step 5

Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf, about 10 inches long and 4 inches wide. Smooth the surface with your hands or a spatula.

Step 6

In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar for the glaze. Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Step 7

Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove it from the oven, spread the remaining glaze over the top, and return it to the oven.

Step 8

Continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.

Step 9

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1976 grams (1976.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3263

Total Fat 205.40g	263%
Saturated Fat 77.40g	387%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.10g
Cholesterol 1072mg	357%
Sodium 6583mg	286%
Total Carbohydrate 145.10g	53%
Dietary Fiber 13.10g	47%
Total Sugars 81.80g
Protein 204.60g	409%

Vitamin D 178IU	889%
Calcium 717mg	55%
Iron 26mg	146%
Potassium 4228mg	90%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 56.9%

Protein: 25.2%

Carbs: 17.9%