Conaway'S Meat Loaf
A hearty homemade meat loaf with savory flavors, topped with ketchup for a tangy finish. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, stir together ground beef, chopped onion, beaten egg, saltine crackers, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Shape the mixture into two small loaves and place them in a baking pan.
- Add 1 cup of water to the pan.
- Cover the pan with tinfoil and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil, spread ketchup over the top of each loaf, and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider mixing in grated carrots or bell peppers. If you're out of saltine crackers, crushed breadcrumbs or oats can serve as substitutes. Ensure the mixture is well-combined for a uniform texture, and don't skip the ketchup topping, as it caramelizes beautifully, enhancing flavor. This meatloaf is a classic choice among American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Conaway's Meat Loaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad dressed in vinaigrette for a light contrast. For a fun twist, try serving it with a side of Rotel Chili for a hearty flavor combination.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices in airtight containers for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Conaway'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 651 calories, with 13g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value), calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1055mg per serving (46% 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 a day in advance. Shape it and store it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld nicely, making for an even more delicious dish when cooked.
What can I use instead of ketchup?
If you prefer a different flavor profile, BBQ sauce or a mixture of Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste can be great alternatives to ketchup. Each option will impart a unique taste to the meatloaf while still keeping it moist.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the juices should run clear when the meatloaf is cut. Letting it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing helps retain moisture.
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).