Aunt Clara'S Meat Loaf
A hearty meatloaf featuring ground beef, vegetables, and savory seasonings, perfect for family dinners and comforting meals with a flavorful ketchup glaze.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, cracker crumbs, eggs, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, salt, rubbed sage, pepper, and milk in a bowl.
- Mix lightly but well.
- Shape the mixture into a 12-inch loaf and place in a loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating diced mushrooms or shredded carrots into the meat mixture. If you don't have cracker crumbs, breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes can be used as substitutes. Mixing in Worcestershire sauce can enhance the savory taste. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender. This recipe is similar to many comforting American recipes, making it a versatile choice for family dinners.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Clara's Meat Loaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic meal. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier option, consider serving it with a side of baked beans, reminiscent of a comforting Ground Beef Dinner. Don't forget to drizzle extra ketchup on top for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of broth or water, covering it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Clara'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 846 calories, with 23g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (211% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), and protein (47% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 586mg per serving (25% 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 lean ground beef for this meatloaf?
Yes, you can use lean ground beef, but be aware that it may result in a drier meatloaf. Adding a bit more milk or incorporating ingredients like grated zucchini can help maintain moisture. If you prefer a richer flavor, mixing in a bit of ground pork or turkey can also be a great alternative.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done cooking?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the exterior should be nicely browned and firm to the touch. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
Can I freeze meatloaf for later use?
Absolutely! Meatloaf can be frozen either cooked or uncooked. If freezing uncooked, shape it and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, storing it for up to 3 months. For cooked meatloaf, slice it and freeze in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).