Cottage Meat Loaf
Cottage Meat Loaf offers a hearty and flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf, combining savory ground beef with tangy catsup, tomato juice, and aromatic seasonings. Its moist texture and rich taste make it a perfect family favorite or comforting meal for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine beef, catsup, tomato juice, salt, pepper, red pepper, eggs, bread crumbs, chopped onions, and prepared mustard in a large bowl.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Line a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan with foil.
- Press the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated cheese or chopped bell peppers into the meat mixture. If you're out of tomato juice, you can substitute with a mix of water and a bit of vinegar. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs or oats. This meatloaf is also delicious when topped with a layer of barbecue sauce before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cottage meat loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed green beans for a balanced dinner. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside some hearty American recipes like Calico Bean Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cottage meat loaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a baking dish, covering it with foil to keep it moist. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cottage Meat Loaf contains roughly 636 calories, with 12g protein, 131g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1239mg per serving (54% 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 ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. Just be aware that turkey may result in a slightly drier meatloaf, so consider adding a little extra moisture with additional tomato juice or a splash of broth.
How can I make this meat loaf spicier?
To add more heat, consider increasing the amount of red pepper or adding a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. You could also mix in chopped jalapeños or other spicy peppers for an extra kick.
Can I freeze the meat loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meat loaf before or after cooking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
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).