Bonnie'S Meat Loaf Dinner
A comforting meat loaf dinner featuring seasoned ground beef, mixed vegetables, and potatoes, perfect for family meals with hearty flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, milk, basil leaves, dry oatmeal, dry mustard, chopped green pepper, chopped onion, beaten egg, and catsup thoroughly.
- Place the mixture in a large baking dish and shape into a donut or ring shape.
- Place frozen mixed vegetables in the center of the ring, add potatoes and remaining vegetables around the outside.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Remove cover and bake for an additional 30 minutes to brown the top.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. If you don't have dry mustard, Dijon mustard can be a good substitute. For a healthier option, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Make sure to chop the vegetables evenly for consistent cooking. If you want to cut down on prep time, you can use pre-chopped frozen vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meatloaf dinner with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or steamed rice to soak up the delicious juices. For a fun twist, consider serving with a side of coleslaw. This dish is a great option for family gatherings or potlucks; browse more American recipes for additional meal ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers 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 on medium power for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, which will help retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bonnie'S Meat Loaf Dinner contains roughly 1065 calories, with 20g protein, 153g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (76% of the Daily Value), potassium (66% of the Daily Value), and iron (53% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for the ground beef. Just keep in mind that different meats may have varying fat contents, which can affect the texture and moisture of the meatloaf. Add a bit more milk or an extra egg if using lean meat.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You can check this with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the loaf. Additionally, the juices should run clear, and the top should be nicely browned.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf a day in advance. Cover it and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply place it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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).