First Step: Get Ready Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup. Gather and measure out all your ingredients, including sautéed onions, seasonings, and glaze components, so everything is ready when you start mixing.

Second Step: Sauté the Onions Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and golden. This step mellows the onions and develops sweetness that complements the meatloaf. Allow them to cool slightly before mixing with the other ingredients to avoid cooking the eggs prematurely.

Third Step: Combine the Filling In a large bowl, gently mix together the ground beef, cooled onions, eggs, minced garlic, ketchup, fresh parsley, breadcrumbs, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon and mix just until combined to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the meatloaf dense and tough.

Fourth Step: Shape and Bake Form the meat mixture into a loaf roughly 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 3 inches tall. Place on the prepared baking sheet. Free-form shaping helps create a crusty exterior, offering flavorful, crispy edges that a loaf pan may restrict. Bake uncovered for 40 minutes.

Fifth Step: Prepare and Apply the Glaze While the meatloaf bakes, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl until the sugar dissolves completely. Adjust for sweetness or tanginess if you prefer. After 40 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf and evenly spread the glaze over the top.

Final Step: Finish Baking and Rest Return the glazed meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (165°F if including poultry). The glaze caramelizes during this time, giving a glossy, flavorful finish. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 to 15 minutes after removing it from the oven to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender slices.