Bertha'S Meat Loaf
A hearty meatloaf with savory green peppers and a tangy ketchup glaze, perfect for comforting family dinners and adaptable to various flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, crushed crackers, chopped green pepper, egg, tomato juice, and a pinch of sage until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a loaf pan.
- Spread ketchup evenly over the top of the loaf.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until cooked through and browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for the beef. You can use crushed oatmeal instead of crackers for added nutrition. Experiment with different herbs like thyme or parsley for a flavor twist. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. To keep the loaf moist, ensure not to overmix the ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Bertha's meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort meal. It also pairs beautifully with a side salad for a fresh contrast. Consider topping slices with additional ketchup or a tangy barbecue sauce. For a hearty twist, serve alongside Corned Beef And Cabbage(Crock-Pot) for a delicious fusion.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bertha'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 799 calories, with 22g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (196% of the Daily Value), protein (44% of the Daily Value), and potassium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1097mg per serving (48% 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 freeze meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze cooked meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in the oven or microwave.
What can I use instead of tomato juice?
If you don't have tomato juice, you can substitute it with equal parts of tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes, diluted slightly with water. Alternatively, a mixture of V8 juice or vegetable broth with a splash of tomato paste can provide a similar flavor profile.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check if meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should register at least 160°F (71°C) in the center. Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and have a nice brown crust on the outside.
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).