Are you tired of spending a fortune at restaurants for a delicious meatloaf? Well, you're in luck! Today, we're going to explore a mouth - watering copycat meatloaf recipe that you can easily make at home. This recipe is not only cost - effective but also loaded with flavors that will make your taste buds dance.

Let's start with the ingredients. You'll need ground beef, which is the star of this dish. The quality of the ground beef matters a great deal. Opt for lean ground beef if you're watching your fat intake, or go for a higher - fat content if you prefer a juicier meatloaf. Along with the ground beef, you'll need sauteed onions. Onions add a sweet and savory base to the meatloaf. The process of sauteing them brings out their natural sugars, giving the meatloaf a rich flavor.

Bell peppers are another essential ingredient. You can choose from different colors of bell peppers, such as red, green, or yellow. Each color has a slightly different flavor profile. Red bell peppers are sweeter, while green bell peppers have a more earthy and slightly bitter taste. Shredded cheese is also a must - have. It melts inside the meatloaf, creating a gooey and delicious texture. You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or any other cheese you like.

Now, let's move on to the preparation. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium - high heat. Add the onions and bell peppers and saute them until they are softened and slightly caramelized. This usually takes about 5 - 7 minutes. Once they are done, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, the sauteed onions and bell peppers, and the shredded cheese. You'll also want to add some breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture together. Breadcrumbs absorb the moisture from the meat and vegetables, preventing the meatloaf from falling apart. Add an egg to the mixture as well. The egg acts as a binder and gives the meatloaf a better texture.

Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. You can use oregano, thyme, or a combination of both. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly with your hands. Make sure that all the flavors are well - incorporated. Once the mixture is well - combined, shape it into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.

Now, it's time for the sweet ketchup glaze. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and a little bit of mustard. The brown sugar adds a sweet note, while the mustard gives it a tangy kick. Brush the glaze over the top of the meatloaf. The glaze not only adds flavor but also gives the meatloaf a beautiful, shiny crust.

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the meatloaf for about 45 - 55 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Once it's done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf more tender and juicy.

When serving, you can slice the meatloaf and pair it with your favorite sides. Mashed potatoes are a classic choice, as they soak up the delicious juices from the meatloaf. You can also serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables. This copycat meatloaf recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. It's easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to be a hit.

So, skip the restaurant and try making this copycat meatloaf at home. You'll be amazed at how delicious it turns out. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create a restaurant - quality meatloaf in the comfort of your own kitchen. Enjoy!