Meatloaf with Sweet Onion Glaze

Of all the things I've ever cooked for her, my meatloaf is what Spouse most often requests. It is a very good standard recipe made even better with the addition of a sweet and spicy onion glaze. With yesterday's Rum and Raisin Ice Cream for dessert, I guess I have no fear of the doghouse for the time being...and they say the way to MAN's heart is through his stomach ...luckily I'm not sexist! ;)

1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
1 cup bread crumbs
½ cup finely shredded parmesan cheese
1 tsp ground black pepper
¼ tsp dried thyme
½ tsp nutmeg
1 beaten egg
2 finely chopped garlic cloves

Combine all well and press into a medium sized loaf pan. Bake at 375 degrees F for about 45 minutes. Drain excess fat from the loaf pan and add the sweet onion glaze. Return to oven for an additional 45 minutes. Drain excess fat again before serving.

Sweet onion glaze:

In a small saucepan sauté for 3 minutes

3 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, julienned
3 cloves minced garlic

Add

1 cup plain tomato sauce or ketchup
½ cup brown sugar
4 tbsp balsamic vinegar
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt
4 tbsp hot sauce (more or less to taste)
4 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp dry mustard powder
1 tsp ground ginger

Simmer slowly for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.