Applesauce Meatloaf
A hearty and comforting meatloaf with applesauce, spices, and vegetables, perfect for family dinners and those craving a flavorful, moist, and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together ground beef, crushed cornflakes, salt, beaten egg, applesauce, and allspice.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf or 2-inch meatballs.
- Place in a baking pan, then add sliced onions, sliced peppers, stewed tomatoes, and brown sugar over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour for the meatloaf or slightly longer for meatballs.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider mixing in a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or using ground turkey instead of beef. You can replace cornflakes with breadcrumbs if desired. To enhance flavor, try adding minced garlic or herbs like thyme. For a spicier kick, incorporate diced jalapeños. This recipe is versatile and can fit into many American recipes, including variations like Aunt Jan's Meatballs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the applesauce meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or buttery corn on the side. For a comforting twist, try serving it with onion soup (short cut) for dipping. This dish also makes great sandwiches the next day, layered with your favorite condiments.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Applesauce Meatloaf contains roughly 934 calories, with 18g protein, 190g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (62% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1556mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the ground beef. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may require additional moisture, so consider adding a little extra applesauce or an additional egg to maintain the loaf's texture.
What if I don't have cornflakes?
If you don't have cornflakes, you can easily replace them with breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even rolled oats. Each option will provide a slightly different texture, but they will all help bind the meatloaf together.
How can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
To make this meatloaf gluten-free, substitute regular cornflakes with gluten-free cornflakes or use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Always ensure that your stewed tomatoes and any other packaged ingredients are labeled gluten-free, and you'll have a delicious meal that everyone can enjoy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).