italian meatloaf

For his half/belated/unbirthday, T requested Italian meatloaf, which I made once before.  T's been waiting for it all summer, so I made it last night while Alan and T played Super Mario Bros. for Wii (C watched--when given the choice to play the Wii or a game on the iPod Touch, he chose to play on the iPod, which he later regretted once T began setting up the Wii, but he had already used up his screen time).

The meatloaf was juicy and the serving plate was completely empty by the end of dinner.  We served it with a garlic and herb spreadable cheese.

Italian Meatloaf

1 tsp. oregano
1 tsp. thyme
1 tsp. basil
1 tsp. minced onion
1/4 tsp. sea salt
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1 bay leaf
2 eggs
2 lbs. ground pork
1/2 C. grated parmesan cheese
1 T. olive oil
1 T. balsamic vinegar
1 T. ketchup
2 T. bread crumbs

Glaze
6 T. ketchup
3 T. honey

Preheat the oven to 350F.  In a large bowl, mix the first seven ingredients and add the ground pork.  Add the eggs and mix everything together.  Then, add 1/4 C. of the grated parmesan, as well as the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, ketchup and bread crumbs.  Mix everything well and allow to marinate for at least 10 minutes, then place in a loaf pan and bake for 10 minutes.  Meanwhile, mix the ketchup and honey in a small bowl.  After the meatloaf has cooked for 10 minutes, spread the glaze on top and cook for 30 minutes, or until done.