Caraway Meat Loaf
A savory meat loaf flavored with caraway seeds and topped with chili sauce, ideal for comforting family dinners and those who enjoy hearty, flavorful dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, minced onion, 2/3 cup beer, egg, caraway seed, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf.
- Place the loaf in a roasting pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider incorporating grated carrots or zucchini into the meat mixture. If you prefer a different flavor profile, swap out caraway seeds for fennel seeds. Use leftover bread for crumbs, and feel free to use ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for beef. Always ensure your loaf is well-combined to avoid crumbling while baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the caraway meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a hearty meal. It also pairs beautifully with a tangy relish or a side salad for a lighter option. For a fun presentation, slice and serve it as a Snack Sandwich, using hearty bread to hold the flavorful meat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave it for 1-2 minutes until heated through. This will help maintain its moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caraway Meat Loaf contains roughly 638 calories, with 17g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value), iron (50% of the Daily Value), and calcium (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2083mg per serving (91% 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 meatloaf before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped but uncooked meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of beer in this recipe?
If you prefer not to use beer, you can substitute it with beef broth or a mix of apple cider vinegar and water. This will keep the moisture in the meatloaf while adding a different flavor.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done cooking?
To check if the meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). Alternatively, you can cut into the center to check that the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.
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).