Beulah'S Meat Loaf
A comforting meat loaf with a savory tomato flavor, crispy crackers, and a tangy catsup topping, perfect for family dinners and hearty meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add crushed Ritz crackers to the mixture until it is thick enough to hold together.
- Line the bottom of the pan with aluminum foil before placing the meat mixture inside.
- Pour catsup over the top of the assembled meat loaf.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating minced garlic or Worcestershire sauce into the meat mixture. If you don't have Ritz crackers, crushed breadcrumbs or oats can be used as a substitute, but adjust the liquid accordingly. Keep an eye on the baking time, as oven variances may affect it. For a twist, try adding some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to enhance the meat loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Beulah's Meat Loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or a crisp salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Green Beans And Bacon for a comforting dinner. You can also top it with additional ketchup or barbecue sauce before serving for an extra burst of flavor. Leftovers make fantastic sandwiches the next day!
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the meat loaf tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last 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 slices for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beulah'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 722 calories, with 14g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (36% of the Daily Value) and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 975mg per serving (42% 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 hamburger for this meat loaf?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger. Just be aware that these leaner meats may require a bit more moisture, so consider adding a splash of broth or an extra egg to maintain the texture.
What can I do if my meat loaf falls apart?
If your meat loaf is crumbling, it may need more binder. Ensure you're adding enough crushed crackers or breadcrumbs to the mixture. Additionally, letting the meat loaf rest for a few minutes after baking can help it set and hold together better when sliced.
Can I freeze the meat loaf before or after cooking?
You can freeze meat loaf both before and after cooking. If freezing before, shape it and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. If freezing after cooking, let it cool completely, then wrap it and store in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3 months.
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).