Cranberry Meatloaf
A savory meatloaf with a sweet cranberry glaze, perfect for holiday dinners or family gatherings, blending tangy fruit with hearty beef flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread brown sugar over the bottom of a greased loaf pan.
- Mash the small can of whole cranberry sauce and spread it over the sugar layer.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, milk, cracker crumbs, eggs, salt, pepper, and diced onion.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on top of the cranberry sauce in the loaf pan.
- Place bay leaves on top of the loaf.
- Bake at 350°F for about 1 hour.
- Remove bay leaves after baking.
- Turn the meatloaf upside down and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter flavor, consider adding a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to the meat mixture. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef. Adjust the baking time if using a larger loaf pan, as it may require additional cooking time. Using homemade cracker crumbs can enhance the texture and flavor of this dish, making it a delightful addition to your table.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cranberry meatloaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with Baked Beans (Kidney) for a hearty dinner. For a lighter option, consider a fresh green salad drizzled with vinaigrette. This dish makes excellent sandwiches the next day, so don’t hesitate to make extra.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cranberry meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a baking dish with a splash of broth or water, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes. This method helps retain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Meatloaf contains roughly 637 calories, with 12g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1416mg per serving (62% 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 leftover meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze leftover cranberry meatloaf. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven.
What can I use instead of cracker crumbs?
If you don't have cracker crumbs on hand, you can use breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as an alternative. For a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal to maintain the texture while accommodating dietary needs.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
To check if the meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached an internal temperature of 160°F. Alternatively, you can cut into the center; the juices should run clear, and there should be no pink remaining. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
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).