Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined.
Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to a greased baking dish or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf shape, ensuring that it is evenly distributed and compacted.
Glaze with Barbecue Sauce: Brush the top of the meatloaf with additional barbecue sauce, ensuring that it is fully coated for extra flavor and moisture.
Bake in the Oven: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until it is cooked through and the top is caramelized and slightly crispy.
Let it Rest: Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender texture.