Denise'S Meat Loaf
Denise's Meat Loaf is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring ground beef, vegetables, and cornmeal, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, salt, pepper, chopped onion, and chopped green pepper.
- Add cornmeal to the mixture and combine thoroughly.
- Shape into a loaf and place in a baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture. If you don't have cornmeal, breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can be used as a substitute. Mixing in some grated cheese can add a delicious twist. Make sure to let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a comforting meal. A simple salad can add freshness to the plate. This dish pairs beautifully with Green Eggs And Ham for a fun twist on classic flavors. Don't forget to drizzle some ketchup or barbecue sauce on top for added taste!
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave them on medium power until heated through. This will help preserve the meatloaf's texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Denise'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 512 calories, with 8g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (89% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (85% of the Daily Value), and iron (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2734mg per serving (119% 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 ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a healthier alternative to ground beef. However, since turkey is leaner, you may want to add a bit of olive oil or an egg to keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C). Alternatively, you can cut into the center and ensure that the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.
Can I freeze meatloaf?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and follow the reheating instructions.
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).