Debbie'S Marvelous Meat Loaf
Debbie's Marvelous Meat Loaf offers a hearty, flavorful dish with a rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and gatherings. It combines savory beef with tender bread crumbs and a hint of onion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, thoroughly mix 1/2 cup spaghetti sauce, ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onion, and beaten egg.
- In a 12 x 8-inch baking pan, firmly shape the mixture into an 8 x 4-inch loaf.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/4 hours or until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture and flavor, consider substituting some of the ground beef with finely chopped mushrooms or grated zucchini. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture. Using whole wheat bread crumbs instead of fine dry bread crumbs can provide a healthier alternative, blending well with the meatloaf. Also, try making mini meatloafs for quicker cooking times.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with a generous drizzle of spaghetti sauce on top for extra flavor. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or steamed green beans for a classic meal. A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette would also complement the dish nicely. For a fun twist, consider serving slices on a toasted bun, creating a delicious meatloaf sandwich.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the meatloaf to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the microwave for a few minutes, or cover it with foil and heat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Debbie'S Marvelous Meat Loaf contains roughly 588 calories, with 10g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 472mg per serving (21% 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 turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can absolutely substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef in this recipe. Just be aware that these meats are leaner, so adding a bit of olive oil or a splash of broth can help retain moisture during baking.
What can I do if my meatloaf falls apart?
If your meatloaf is falling apart, it may need more binding agents. Adding an extra egg or a bit more bread crumbs can help hold it together. Ensure you are mixing the ingredients thoroughly to allow for proper binding as well.
How can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
To make this meatloaf gluten-free, simply replace the fine dry bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Be sure to check the spaghetti sauce for gluten-containing ingredients as well, opting for a certified gluten-free brand.
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).