Pulse sequences for an MRI apparatus can provide improved quantitative relaxometry in liver and other tissues. Relaxation parameters such as T1rho or T2 (or both at once) can be measured. The pulse sequence can include a magnetization preparation pulse sequence and an acquisition pulse sequence including a fast spin echo (FSE) pulse sequence. Flip angles and echo time for the FSE pulse sequence can be chosen to optimize image quality without affecting the quantification of a relaxation parameter. Additional pulse sequences, e.g., for enhanced blood suppression and/or fat suppression can be incorporated. The acquisition pulse sequence can have a duration that allows data for a single slice image to be acquired during a breath-hold.