- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Form the Loaf: Transfer the mixture to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and shape into a loaf.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar. Spread half of this glaze over the meatloaf before baking.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Glaze with the remaining sauce halfway through baking.
- Rest: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Sides for Your Meatloaf Platter
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Boil peeled potatoes until tender, then mash with roasted garlic, butter, cream, and season with salt and pepper.
Honey Glazed Carrots
- Roast carrots in the oven with honey, olive oil, and a touch of salt until they’re tender and slightly caramelized.
Steamed Green Beans
- Lightly steam green beans and toss them with a bit of butter, lemon zest, and almonds for crunch.
Assembling the Platter
- Centerpiece: Place the sliced meatloaf in the center of a large serving platter.
- Arrange the Sides: Neatly arrange the mashed potatoes, glazed carrots, and green beans around the meatloaf. Consider using small bowls for the mashed potatoes to add height and interest.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the meatloaf and sides for a pop of color. You can also add a few lemon wedges around the green beans for an additional splash of color and flavor.
- Serving: Provide serving utensils for each component and ensure the meatloaf slices are easy to serve. Optionally, you can drizzle a little extra glaze over the meatloaf for added moisture and flavor right before serving.
Tips for a Memorable Platter
- Texture and Color: Choose sides with varying textures and colors for a visually appealing platter.
- Warmth: Ensure all components are warm when serving. You can time the sides to finish cooking as the meatloaf rests.
- Personal Touch: Add a personal touch with a favorite family recipe or a unique side that complements the meatloaf.
This meatloaf platter combines classic flavors with a presentation that invites everyone to dig in and enjoy. It’s perfect for a family dinner, special occasion, or any time you want to serve up comfort food in style.