Donna G'S Favorite Applesauce Meat Loaf
Donna G's Favorite Applesauce Meat Loaf combines lean ground beef with applesauce and seasonings for a moist, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Combine all ingredients and place in a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan.
- Bake for 90 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meatloaf, consider substituting half the ground beef with ground turkey. You can also add diced onions or bell peppers for extra flavor. If you prefer a sweeter taste, try using a honey or maple-flavored catsup. To achieve a nice glaze, brush additional catsup on top during the last 15 minutes of baking. This dish is one of the many delicious American recipes that can be easily customized.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A fresh garden salad complements it well. It pairs beautifully with Corn Soup With Crabmeat for a comforting dinner. For a heartier option, consider serving it with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and cover the meatloaf with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices for a quick meal, ensuring they're heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Donna G'S Favorite Applesauce Meat Loaf contains roughly 57 calories, with 2g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (79% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly based on the type of meat used, especially with poultry, which cooks faster.
How can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, simply replace the fine, dry bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or oats. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially catsup, are also labeled gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
What can I do if my meatloaf is too dry?
If your meatloaf turns out dry, try adding a bit more applesauce or a splash of broth before mixing the ingredients. You can also serve it with a side of catsup or a homemade sauce to add moisture and flavor.
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).