Country Style Meat Loaf
A hearty country-style meat loaf combining ground meat, mixed vegetables, and flavorful seasonings, ideal for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with a savory tomato and buttery topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine meat, mixed vegetables (thawed), salt, pepper, and parsley in a deep mixing bowl; mix well.
- Add corn flakes and half of the undiluted tomato soup; mix well to blend.
- Place half of the meat mixture in a buttered 6 x 16 x 2 1/2-inch baking dish; pack it evenly.
- Dot the top with half of the butter.
- Add the remaining meat mixture on top and press down slightly.
- Dot with the rest of the butter and pour the remaining tomato soup over the top.
- Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 1 hour.
- Remove from oven and let stand for 15 minutes before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture. If you don't have corn flakes, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs can serve as a substitute. Ensure your mixed vegetables are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the loaf. Experiment with different ground meats like turkey for a lighter version, making it suitable for a variety of diets.
Serving Suggestions
This Country Style Meat Loaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a satisfying meal. Serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or with a side of French Fried Zucchini for a delightful contrast in textures. For a complete dinner, consider offering Cherry Slices for dessert to round out the meal perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers 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 retain moisture. Heat in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Style Meat Loaf contains roughly 890 calories, with 29g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (198% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (150% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (103% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1451mg per serving (63% 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 freeze the meatloaf before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled meatloaf before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as instructed.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup on hand, you can use a can of diced tomatoes mixed with a tablespoon of tomato paste as a substitute. Alternatively, a homemade tomato sauce or marinara can also work well, adding extra flavor to the meatloaf.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done cooking?
To ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 160°F. Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and juices should run clear when sliced.
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).