David'S Meat Loaf
A hearty and flavorful meatloaf with smoky barbecue sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a comforting classic American taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the ground hamburger, barbecue sauce, eggs, bread crumbs, black pepper, chopped celery, milk, and chopped onion in a large bowl.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking pan.
- Cover the shaped meatloaf with catsup using a knife.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated cheese or finely chopped peppers with the meat mixture. If you prefer a leaner option, use ground turkey instead of hamburger. To enhance moisture, you can substitute half of the milk with vegetable broth. For a smoky kick, try adding a splash of liquid smoke to the barbecue sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. Serve with a side of Marinated Green Bean Bundles for a fresh crunch. A dollop of extra barbecue sauce on top can enhance the flavor. For a complete dinner, consider offering a simple salad or Company Eggs(Yields 6 To 8 Servings) as an appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish with a little water to retain moisture, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of David'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 781 calories, with 24g protein, 161g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (144% of the Daily Value), iron (102% of the Daily Value), and calcium (68% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 509mg per serving (22% 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 make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf, then wrap it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of barbecue sauce?
If you're looking for alternatives to barbecue sauce, consider using ketchup mixed with a bit of Worcestershire sauce and a dash of hot sauce for a tangy flavor. Alternatively, a homemade sauce made with tomato paste, vinegar, and spices can also work well.
How do I know when the meatloaf is cooked through?
The best way to check if your meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center of the loaf; it should read 160°F for ground beef. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the center, and ensure there is no pink meat and the juices run clear.
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).