Better Than Bruce'S Meat Loaf
A hearty, flavorful meat loaf with savory tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a satisfying, easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, egg, crushed saltine crackers, tomato sauce, and onion soup mix thoroughly, saving 1/4 can of tomato sauce.
- Place the meat mixture into a skillet and shape into a loaf.
- Spread the remaining tomato sauce over the top of the meat loaf.
- Bake in a 400°F oven for 35 to 40 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding chopped onions, bell peppers, or even grated cheese to the meat mixture. If you don't have saltine crackers, crushed breadcrumbs or rolled oats can work as substitutes. Make sure to mix the ingredients gently to keep the meat loaf tender. For a smoky flavor, try adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of this delicious meat loaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic meal. It pairs beautifully with Easy Oven Roast Beef for a hearty dinner. For a lighter option, consider a fresh garden salad on the side. A drizzle of additional tomato sauce can enhance the flavor for those who love a saucy finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meat loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meat loaf and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring they are covered to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Better Than Bruce'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 1723 calories, with 45g protein, 231g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (90% of the Daily Value), iron (72% of the Daily Value), and calcium (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1284mg per serving (56% 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 ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef in this recipe. Keep in mind that these meats may require additional seasoning to enhance their flavor, as they are leaner than beef. Adjust cooking time if necessary, as poultry cooks faster than beef.
What can I do if my meat loaf falls apart?
If your meat loaf is crumbling, it may need more binder. Adding an extra egg or more crushed crackers can help hold it together. Additionally, make sure to pack the meat mixture tightly in the skillet to maintain its shape while baking.
Can I freeze meat loaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meat loaf before baking or freeze leftovers after cooking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking or reheating, and enjoy delicious meat loaf 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).