Breakfast Creek Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf with a savory blend of beef, vegetables, and flavorful sauces, perfect for comfort food lovers and those craving a delicious, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the onion, green or red bell pepper, and bread together in a food processor.
- Add the chopped mixture to the ground beef and egg.
- Mix lightly to combine all ingredients.
- Add remaining ingredients: cottage cheese, dry mustard, black pepper, salt, and horseradish.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in a baking pan lightly rubbed with Crisco.
- Brush the top of the loaf with additional catsup and add strips of bacon on top.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 55 to 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating chopped garlic or Worcestershire sauce into the meat mixture. If you don’t have cottage cheese, ricotta or Greek yogurt can be good alternatives. Whole wheat bread can be substituted with regular bread or even crushed crackers for a different texture. Ensure not to overmix the meat to keep the loaf tender.
Serving Suggestions
This meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or a side of steamed vegetables for a classic meal. A simple green salad or roasted carrots can complement the dish nicely. For a hearty touch, serve with a side of crusty bread or browse more American recipes for additional side dish ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf should be cooled completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, or place it in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the microwave or oven at 350°F until heated through, adding a splash of broth to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Breakfast Creek Meat Loaf contains roughly 654 calories, with 13g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (29% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 890mg 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 make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This can enhance the flavors as they meld together overnight.
What can I do if my meatloaf is too dry?
If your meatloaf turns out dry, consider adding more moisture with ingredients like ketchup or BBQ sauce. You can also serve it with gravy or a sauce on the side to enhance the flavor and moisture.
Can I freeze meatloaf for later use?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meatloaf or cooked slices. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).