Bonnie'S Special Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf with a sweet and tangy tomato glaze, perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering savory flavors with a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare the meat mixture by combining ground beef, minced onion, salt, and pepper.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- Mix the tomato sauce, brown sugar or molasses, and prepared mustard to make the glaze.
- Pour the glaze over the meat loaf.
- Bake for 20 minutes, then pour more glaze over the top.
- Continue baking for an additional 20 minutes or until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For an even richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. If you're out of brown sugar, honey or maple syrup can make suitable substitutes. When shaping the loaf, ensure it's not too tightly packed to keep it tender. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this meat loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Bonnie's Special Meat Loaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. For a hearty meal, serve it alongside a potato dish casserole or roasted vegetables. A slice of meat loaf also makes a great sandwich the next day, topped with your favorite condiments.
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 warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. Adding a splash of water or more glaze while reheating helps maintain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bonnie'S Special Meat Loaf contains roughly 220 calories, with 5g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 899mg per serving (39% 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 freeze the meat loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meat loaf before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute like lentils or quinoa for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, especially for turkey or chicken, which can cook faster.
How do I know when the meat loaf is done?
The meat loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). Use a meat thermometer to check. The juices should run clear when it's cooked through, and the top should be nicely browned.
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).