Country Meat Loaf
A hearty, flavorful meat loaf with a hint of mustard and Worcestershire sauce, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings, offering comfort and classic taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients, except half of the tomato sauce.
- Form the mixture into a meat loaf shape in a shallow baking pan.
- Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top of the meat loaf.
- Bake for 1 hour until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped bell peppers or garlic to the meat mixture. If you don’t have ground chuck, ground turkey or pork can work as substitutes. To enhance moisture, you can also add a splash of milk or broth. Remember to let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy. Serve this with a side of Old Fashioned Cornbread for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with a generous helping of mashed potatoes or creamy butter mint salad for a comforting meal. Roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad make excellent sides that balance the rich flavors. This hearty dish also pairs beautifully with Sharon's Cran-Apple Crunch for dessert, offering a sweet finish to your dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or slice and microwave for a quick meal. Pair with leftover tomato sauce for added moisture when reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Meat Loaf contains roughly 603 calories, with 20g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), iron (22% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1380mg per serving (60% 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 lean ground beef instead of ground chuck?
Yes, you can use lean ground beef, but keep in mind that it may result in a drier meatloaf due to the lower fat content. To counteract this, consider adding a bit of extra moisture, like a tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of broth.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check if the meatloaf is cooked through is by using a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F in the center. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the center to ensure there is no pink remaining before serving.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape it into a loaf and bake it when you're ready to serve. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
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).