Description
Savory Apple and Cheese Meatloaf with Thyme Glaze is a modern twist on classic meatloaf, blending sweet grated apples, melty cheese, and fresh herbs for a tender, flavorful main dish topped with a tangy thyme-infused glaze.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup panko or breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium Granny Smith apple, peeled and grated
- 1 cup cheddar or Gruyère cheese, shredded or cubed
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (plus more for glaze)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup or tomato paste
- 2 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper or foil.
- In a large bowl, gently mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, grated apple, cheese, thyme, mustard, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared pan or on a lined baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of thyme to make the glaze. Spread half over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, brushing with remaining glaze halfway through, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith to balance the savory flavors.
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep the loaf tender.
- Add grated zucchini or carrots for extra moisture and nutrients.
- Stuff with extra cheese cubes for a molten center variation.
- Mini versions can be made in muffin tins for quick baking and portioning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 105mg