Delicious Meat Loaf
A hearty and flavorful meat loaf combining ground chuck and beef with onions, celery, and a tangy sauce. Baked until golden and juicy, it makes a comforting main dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a balanced blend of savory, sweet, and umami flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground chuck, ground beef, chopped onion, chopped celery, egg, mustard, catsup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a casserole dish.
- Mix well to incorporate all ingredients.
- Sprinkle cracker meal evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Cover the casserole with additional catsup.
- Dot the top with small pieces of butter.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until cooked through and browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meatloaf, consider adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms. If you don't have cracker meal, breadcrumbs work as a suitable substitute. To enhance flavor, mix in some garlic powder or Italian seasoning. Don't skip the Worcestershire sauce; it adds depth. Ensure not to overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort meal. It pairs beautifully with Easy Stew for a hearty dinner. For a variation, top with a tangy barbecue sauce or serve with a fresh salad for a lighter option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Microwave reheating is also an option, but may dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Delicious Meat Loaf contains roughly 306 calories, with 7g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value) and iron (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 754mg per serving (33% 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 meat for this meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can mix ground turkey or pork with the beef for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that lean meats may require added moisture like broth or vegetables to prevent dryness.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F in the center. Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and no longer pink inside.
Can I freeze meatloaf?
Yes, meatloaf freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).