Art And Betty'S Deli Meat Loaf
A hearty, flavorful meatloaf featuring ground beef, vegetables, and a tangy barbecue and tomato sauce glaze, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Chop celery, onion, green onions, and bell pepper finely.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, eggs, bread crumbs, barbecue sauce, tomato sauce, catsup, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add chopped vegetables to the meat mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in a greased baking dish.
- Spread 1 1/2 cups of catsup evenly over the top of the loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 90 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meatloaf, consider adding grated carrots or zucchini to the mixture. If you prefer a slightly spicier kick, feel free to increase the chili powder. You can substitute the lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you're out of barbecue sauce, a mix of Worcestershire sauce and honey can work in a pinch.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. Consider serving it with a side of green beans or a fresh garden salad. For a delightful twist, try it as a sandwich with your favorite toppings, making it a perfect lunch option.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the meatloaf and freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual slices.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Art And Betty'S Deli Meat Loaf contains roughly 1266 calories, with 26g protein, 237g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), protein (53% of the Daily Value), and calcium (49% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2220mg per serving (97% 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 make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance. Simply combine all the ingredients and refrigerate it before shaping it into a loaf. This allows the flavors to meld. When ready to bake, just shape it and cook as directed.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice can be used as a substitute. Each option will give the meatloaf a slightly different texture, but they all work well to bind the ingredients together.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. It should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). If you don’t have one, check for clear juices running from the meat when you cut into it.
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).