Dear Abby'S Meat Loaf
A hearty meatloaf with savory flavors, topped with ketchup or tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners and easy to prepare in under two hours.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground chuck, eggs, catsup, warm water, onion soup mix, and bread crumbs together in a large bowl.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place in a baking pan.
- Spread additional catsup or tomato sauce on top of the loaf.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meatloaf, consider adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. If you don’t have onion soup mix, use a combination of dried onion flakes, garlic powder, and seasoning salt. Instead of ground chuck, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For added flavor, mix in some Worcestershire sauce or Italian seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans for a comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. For a twist, enjoy slices on a sandwich with your favorite condiments. Consider serving alongside a slice of Jalapeno Cornbread for a delightful flavor combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes, but be careful not to dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dear Abby'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 460 calories, with 16g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), iron (26% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 892mg per serving (39% 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?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld, making it even tastier. Just be sure to shape it and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out.
What can I use instead of catsup?
If you prefer not to use catsup, you can substitute it with barbecue sauce or even a homemade tomato sauce. Both options will provide a similar sweetness and moisture to the meatloaf, enhancing its flavor profile.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The best way to check if your meatloaf is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. It should register at least 160°F (70°C) in the center. Alternatively, you can cut into the loaf to ensure there is no pink in the center 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).