E-Z Meat Loaf
E-Z Meat Loaf is a simple, flavorful dish combining ground beef with herbs and a savory ketchup topping, perfect for quick family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground chuck, herb stuffing mix, egg, milk, salt, and pepper together in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- Spread ketchup on top of the meatloaf.
- Cook at 170°F with a probe until done, approximately 15 minutes.
- Let stand for about 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding chopped onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you don't have Pepperidge Farm stuffing mix, homemade breadcrumbs mixed with herbs can work as a substitute. Adjust ketchup quantity based on your taste preference, and feel free to add Worcestershire sauce for extra depth. For a quick side, serve with steamed vegetables or a simple salad.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the meatloaf and serve it with creamy mashed potatoes or a side of roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Penny'S Cranberry Marshmallow Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also top it with additional ketchup or your favorite barbecue sauce for added flavor, and serve with crusty bread for a heartier dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. For a crispy edge, you can also reheat it in a toaster oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of E-Z Meat Loaf contains roughly 306 calories, with 7g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of iron (16% of the Daily Value), calcium (16% of the Daily Value), and protein (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 752mg 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 freeze the meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf before or after cooking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I use instead of ground chuck?
If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground chuck. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat. Adjust the cooking time depending on the meat used.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
To ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, ensure the meatloaf is browned on the outside and no longer pink in the center.
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).