Betty'S Meat Loaf
A hearty meatloaf with savory flavors of beef, onion, and green pepper, topped with tomato ketchup, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients well in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in a pan of your choice.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Halfway through baking, cover the meatloaf with tomato ketchup.
- Pour some ketchup into the drippings during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try adding chopped mushrooms or grated carrots for extra moisture and flavor. If you prefer a leaner meatloaf, substitute ground turkey for the beef. To keep the meatloaf moist, ensure the bread is completely soaked in the tomato sauce before mixing. Experiment with spices like paprika or Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor, similar to Grandma Babe'S Meat Loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meatloaf with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic comfort meal. A side salad dressed with vinaigrette adds a fresh contrast. For a heartier option, pair with mac and cheese or cornbread. This dish also pairs beautifully with Nonnie'S Hot Dish, making it a great addition to a potluck or family gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also freeze meatloaf slices for up to 3 months; just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 656 calories, with 10g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value), iron (17% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2385mg per serving (104% 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 different types of meat for this meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a combination of meats like pork and beef for varied flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may require additional moisture, so consider adding a bit more tomato sauce or breadcrumbs.
What can I use instead of bread in the recipe?
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute the bread with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. Another alternative is to use crushed crackers or cooked rice, which can help bind the meatloaf while adding unique flavors.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done cooking?
The best way to check if the meatloaf is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. It should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and have a slight bounce when pressed.
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).