Bonnie Rayburn'S Meat Loaf
A hearty, flavorful meatloaf combining tender hamburger, onion, and tomato sauce, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Combine hamburger meat, beaten egg, chopped onion, half can of tomato sauce, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it into a loaf pan measuring approximately 12 x 7 1/2 x 2 inches.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes until cooked through.
- Use the remaining tomato sauce to serve with the meatloaf if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider mixing in some grated zucchini or finely chopped bell peppers. If you prefer a different flavor profile, substitute the beef with ground turkey or chicken. Using homemade breadcrumbs can enhance the texture. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the mix. Pair this meatloaf with sides like Maryland Spoon Bread for a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with a dollop of the reserved tomato sauce on top for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with classic sides such as mashed potatoes and green beans. For a unique twist, try serving it with Cranberry Baked Beans for a sweet and savory combination. A simple salad can also complement the dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bonnie Rayburn'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 907 calories, with 20g protein, 166g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2553mg per serving (111% 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 a different type of meat for this meatloaf?
Yes, you can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the fat content of the meat used.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The best way to check if the meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read at least 160°F in the center. Alternatively, you can cut into the meatloaf; it should be no longer pink in the center, with clear juices running.
Can I freeze meatloaf for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
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).