Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan (9x5 inch / 23x13 cm) with parchment or lightly grease it.

In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion over medium heat with 1 tbsp oil until translucent and slightly golden, about 6–8 minutes. Add garlic for the last minute. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.

In a big bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, cooled onion mixture, breadcrumbs (or soaked bread), milk, eggs, mustard, Worcestershire sauce (if using), smoked paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, and parsley.

Gently mix with your hands or a spoon just until combined — don’t overwork the meat.

Shape the meat into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan. Lay bacon slices across the top if using.

Bake uncovered for 45 minutes. While the meatloaf bakes, whisk together the glaze ingredients (ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, mustard).

After 45 minutes, brush the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10–20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for beef/pork or 165°F (74°C) for turkey.

Remove from oven and let rest in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing.

Slice, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm with your favorite sides.