Corned Beef Loaf
A savory gelatin-based loaf combining corned beef, peas, eggs, and vegetables with a tangy dressing, perfect for a chilled main dish at gatherings or family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve gelatin in cold water.
- Heat peas and liquid; add to gelatin and set aside.
- Mix chopped eggs, celery, green pepper, and onion together.
- Add mayonnaise, evaporated milk, salt, vinegar, and Tabasco to the vegetable mixture.
- Combine the vegetable mixture with the peas and gelatin mixture; mix well and add chopped corned beef.
- Pour into a dish or pan lined with waxed paper.
- Cover and chill for at least 2 hours.
- Cut into squares and serve on lettuce as a main dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved before adding the peas. You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. If you prefer a spicier kick, try adding diced jalapeños or a bit more Tabasco. This dish can be enhanced by serving it with a side of Vegetable Soup With Beef, which complements its flavors nicely.
Serving Suggestions
Serve corned beef loaf on a bed of crisp lettuce for a refreshing presentation. Pair it with a side of pickles or a light salad for added crunch. This dish also works well as a part of a buffet spread, alongside American recipes like Beef Shepherd'S Pie or Soupierior Meat Loaf for variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the loaf and gently warm in a microwave for about 30 seconds or until just heated through. Avoid overheating to maintain texture. Serve chilled or at room temperature for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corned Beef Loaf contains roughly 385 calories, with 6g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (103% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 658mg per serving (29% 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 fresh peas instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh peas, but you will need to blanch them first to soften them before mixing with the gelatin. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the corned beef with a plant-based protein like chopped mushrooms or lentils. You can also add more vegetables to enhance the flavor and texture.
Can I freeze corned beef loaf?
Freezing is not recommended for this dish as it may alter the texture once thawed. However, if you must freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and consume within one month for best quality.
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).