Amazing meatloaf!

1C chopped onion
3 celery ribs, chopped fine
1 Tbs minced garlic
1 carrot chopped fine
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp pepper

1/2 tsp dried basil

1/2 tsp dried thyme

2 bay leaves

2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
2/3 C ketchup
1 package ground minced beef
1 C breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1/3 C minced fresh parsley

optional:
1 pinch of fennel seeds
1/2 tsp hot sauce
mixed into meat

Method

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
In a large heavy skillet cook the onion, celery, carrot, garlic, dried basil, thyme and bay leaves, over medium heat, stirring, for about 5 minutes.

Cover the skillet and stir occassionally until the carrots are tender, about 5 more minutes.

Stir in salt and pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and 1/3 a cup of ketchup. Cook for 1 more minute.

In a large bowl, combine the meats, eggs, vegetables, bread crumbs, and parsley. Form into a loaf and put into a rectangular baking pan with 2-inch high sides. Cover the loaf with remaining ketchup.

Bake the meatloaf in the oven for 1 hour 20 minutes

Serves 4 to 6