Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Gather your large mixing bowl, baking sheet with parchment, skillet, meat thermometer, and basting brush.
Peel and finely chop the onion. Sauté it in the skillet over medium heat until golden and caramelized, filling your kitchen with a sweet, roasted aroma. Let it cool slightly.
In the large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked panko breadcrumbs, sautéed onions, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and the large egg. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overmix, to keep it tender and avoid toughness.
Shape the mixture into a large, rugged, uneven loaf on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Feel free to make it chunky and imperfect—this adds to its wild charm.
Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, until the crust is deep golden and crispy. The loaf should be firm but still juicy inside.
While it bakes, prepare the glaze: mix ketchup, hot sauce, and vinegar in a small bowl. This spicy-sweet glaze will add a glossy finish and extra flavor.
About 15 minutes before the loaf is done, brush the glaze generously over the top with a basting brush. Continue baking until the glaze is bubbling and slightly caramelized.
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the center reaches 71°C (160°F) for perfect doneness.
Slice into thick, uneven pieces to showcase its rustic, chaotic texture. The crust should crackle slightly when you cut into it.
Serve your monster meatloaf with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Enjoy the crispy edges, juicy interior, and wild, comforting heart of this dish!
