Carol Wood'S Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf dish featuring ground beef, fresh vegetables, and savory soy sauce, perfect for comforting family meals and versatile for various flavor preferences.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the ground beef, soy sauce, eggs, peeled and chopped tomatoes, chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper well.
- Pour 1/4 cup oil into a pan.
- Place the meat loaf mixture in the pan and cook on top of the stove until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding herbs like thyme or parsley to the meat mixture. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute low-sodium soy sauce. Mixing in some breadcrumbs can also help with texture. For a heartier version, incorporate grated carrots or chopped mushrooms. This recipe is a great base to explore various meat loaf variations found in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat loaf with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic meal. It also pairs beautifully with macaroni cheese with dried beef for a comforting twist. A fresh garden salad can add a refreshing contrast. Consider topping the meat loaf with a tangy sauce or ketchup before serving for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the meat loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meat loaf and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave slices for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carol Wood'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 539 calories, with 19g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (106% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2139mg per serving (93% 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 meat loaf?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly. If using leaner meats, consider adding a bit more moisture, like additional tomatoes or a splash of broth, to keep the meat loaf juicy.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the meat loaf?
You can enhance the flavor by adding ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, garlic, or even a dash of hot sauce for some heat. Chopped fresh herbs or grated cheese can also provide extra depth of flavor. Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this meat loaf gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Ensure that any additional ingredients, like breadcrumbs or sauces, are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meat loaf without gluten.
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).