Aunt Helen'S Meat Loaf
A hearty meatloaf with savory herbs and a tangy catsup glaze, perfect for family dinners and comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine ground chuck, cracker meal, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, beaten eggs, catsup, crushed bay leaf, thyme, marjoram, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meatloaf, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of milk to the mixture. If you don't have cracker meal, crushed saltines or breadcrumbs can work as substitutes. For added flavor, sauté the onions and green peppers before mixing them in. You can also experiment with herbs like rosemary or parsley for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Helen's Meat Loaf with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort meal. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or a serving of 5 Pound Potato Salad for a heartier option. For a bit of zing, try drizzling extra catsup or a tangy barbecue sauce on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Helen'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 770 calories, with 18g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (152% of the Daily Value), calcium (57% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1248mg per serving (54% 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 turkey or chicken instead of beef for this meatloaf?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground chuck. Just be aware that turkey and chicken are leaner, so you might want to add a bit of olive oil or additional moisture to prevent the meatloaf from drying out.
What can I add to the meatloaf for extra flavor?
Consider adding diced mushrooms, grated carrots, or even some shredded cheese to the mixture for added flavor and moisture. You can also incorporate different spices or herbs depending on your taste preferences. If you enjoy a sweet touch, a tablespoon of brown sugar can enhance the flavor.
Can I freeze the meatloaf before baking?
Absolutely! You can shape the meatloaf and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as instructed. This makes for a convenient meal option later.
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).