Different Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf packed with savory flavors from tomatoes, green pepper, and onion, complemented by herbs and stuffing mix. Perfect for family dinners, it offers a comforting, flavorful experience with juicy meat and a tender crumb, suitable for gatherings or a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion, green pepper, garlic, and celery until tender.
- Add the rest of the ingredients, saving half the tomato paste and stewed tomatoes.
- Spray a 3-quart baking dish with cooking spray and add the mixture.
- Top with half the remaining tomato paste and stewed tomatoes.
- Bake at 400°F for 1 hour, covered.
- Reduce temperature to 350°F and bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes.
- Cool in the pan, then turn out onto a platter to slice.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some Italian herbs like oregano or basil. If you don’t have pork flavor stuffing mix, regular bread crumbs or seasoned croutons can be used as substitutes. Ensure the vegetables are finely chopped for even cooking, and consider adding grated cheese for a creamy texture. This dish could be paired with a salad or served as part of a buffet alongside other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This meatloaf is delicious served with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. For an extra punch, drizzle a little barbecue sauce on top before serving. You can also pair it with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It’s a hearty dish that would complement sides found in recipes like **Bobby'S Chili** or **Swiss Steak Smothered With Onions**.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf should be cooled completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes per slice, ensuring it’s heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Different Meat Loaf contains roughly 339 calories, with 16g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 718mg per serving (31% 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 ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just keep in mind that ground turkey may yield a slightly different texture and flavor. You might want to add extra seasoning to enhance the taste, as turkey is milder than beef.
What can I use instead of stewed tomatoes?
If you don't have stewed tomatoes on hand, diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes can make a great substitute. You might want to add a bit of sugar or extra seasoning to mimic the sweetness and flavor of stewed tomatoes.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to serve. Alternatively, you can bake it ahead, let it cool, and then reheat it before serving, making it a convenient option for busy days.
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).