A delightful twist on the classic meatloaf, incorporating the sweetness of applesauce and the savory depth of pork and beef.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating ensures even cooking from the start.
Lightly grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or a small amount of oil.
This prevents the meatloaf from sticking to the pan.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, applesauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs, and egg.
Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the loaf dense.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down gently to shape it evenly.
Ensure the top is smooth for even cooking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness without cutting into the loaf.
Allow the meatloaf to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Resting helps the juices redistribute, making the meatloaf more moist.
