Debra'S "Best Yet" Meat Loaf
A hearty meatloaf packed with savory herbs, green pepper, and topped with flavorful gravy, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, onion soup mix, eggs, rosemary, bread crumbs, ketchup, Dijon mustard, parsley, garlic powder, green pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in a greased baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until cooked through.
- Heat the two cans of brown gravy according to the package instructions.
- Serve the meatloaf sliced, topped with warm gravy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding grated cheese or diced mushrooms to the meat mixture. If you're short on breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats can serve as substitutes. Ensure the meatloaf is moist by not overmixing and adjusting the bread crumbs to your desired consistency. For an extra kick, try adding a touch of hot sauce to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic meal. It also pairs beautifully with Joyce'S Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream for dessert. Consider a side salad for a refreshing contrast. For a unique twist, try serving it on a sandwich with your favorite toppings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the microwave or oven, adding a little gravy or broth to keep it moist. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 3 months, reheating from frozen as needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Debra'S "Best Yet" Meat Loaf contains roughly 799 calories, with 19g protein, 156g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (92% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), and iron (48% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2151mg per serving (94% 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 different types of ground meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a mix of ground meats like beef, pork, and turkey for varied flavor and texture. Keep in mind that leaner meats may require additional moisture, so consider adding more breadcrumbs or vegetables to maintain a juicy meatloaf.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done cooking?
The best way to check if the meatloaf is done is to insert a meat thermometer into the center. It should read at least 160°F (71°C). Alternatively, you can cut into the center to ensure there’s no pink meat and the juices run clear.
Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape it into a loaf and bake it when you're ready to serve. This can save time on busy days and enhance the flavors as they meld together overnight.
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).