Meatloaf without breadcrumbs is as moist and flavorful as the classic. Made with readily available ingredients, this comfort food favorite is easy to prepare and makes a great centerpiece for your dinner table.
Preheat oven to 400℉. Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil (see notes). Set aside.
Add the green pepper and onion to the bowl of a food processor, and pulse until finely chopped. Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the oregano, thyme, paprika, cumin, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
1 medium green bell pepper, 1 small-medium onion, 1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano, 1 ½ teaspoons dried thyme, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
Add the meat and gently mix, using a fork, to prevent overworking the meat (see notes). Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and shape it into a brick approx. 4x8 inches. Bake for 30 minutes.
1 ⅓ pounds meatloaf mix
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar. Brush the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, and return the pan to the oven to bake until the internal temperature reaches 160℉, an additional 10-15 minutes. Rest the meatloaf for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
3 tablespoons ketchup, 2 teaspoons yellow mustard, 1 tablespoon light or dark brown sugar
Notes
A sheet pan or shallow casserole dish is best for cooking meatloaf because it allows the heat to circulate around the meatloaf. Avoid using deep meatloaf pans because the meat will steam and won't brown or caramelize around the edges.
Work the meat as little as possible to prevent a dense, tough loaf. Mix all of the seasonings together first, before adding the meat. Then, use a fork to gently mix the meat into the seasonings.