Cranberry Meat Loaf
A savory meatloaf infused with tart cranberry sauce and brown sugar, perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners with a sweet and tangy flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Beat the egg and skim milk in a large bowl.
- Add the ground beef, oats, chopped onion, and pepper.
- Mix well until combined.
- Shape the mixture into 5 individual loaves and place in a baking dish.
- Mix the cranberry sauce, dark brown sugar, and lemon juice to make the glaze.
- Spoon the glaze over each loaf.
- Bake for about 45 minutes, basting once or twice with the glaze.
- Serve the remaining warm glaze in a gravy boat.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra moisture and flavor, consider adding shredded carrots or diced bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you don't have dark brown sugar, you can substitute with light brown sugar mixed with a bit of molasses. Also, make sure to keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary; a meat thermometer should read 160°F for safe consumption. This dish pairs beautifully with Meatballs In Mushroom Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cranberry meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the meatloaf. Drizzle the warm glaze over the top before serving for added flavor. This dish also makes a great sandwich filling the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cranberry meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture, heating in 30-second increments until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Meat Loaf contains roughly 564 calories, with 16g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 548mg per serving (24% 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 beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to beef in this recipe. Just be aware that turkey may produce a slightly different texture and flavor, so you might want to adjust the seasoning accordingly. Ensure it reaches the same safe internal temperature for consumption.
What can I substitute for the bulk sausage?
If you prefer a healthier option or don't have bulk sausage, you can use ground turkey or chicken sausage. For a vegetarian alternative, consider using a plant-based sausage or finely chopped mushrooms mixed with spices to replicate the flavor.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make gluten-free cranberry meatloaf, replace the quick oats with certified gluten-free oats. Additionally, ensure that the sausage and cranberry sauce you use are gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten ingredients. Always check labels for gluten-free assurances.
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).