Eileen'S Meat Loaf
Eileen's Meat Loaf is a hearty, flavorful dish combining ground meats and a savory onion soup base, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Combine all ingredients and mix together well.
- Turn the mixture into a large pan and shape into a loaf.
- Bake for 1 hour or until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the meat mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute half of the ground chuck with ground turkey or chicken. To keep the loaf moist, make sure not to overmix the ingredients. You can also top the meatloaf with additional ketchup or barbecue sauce before baking for a tangy glaze.
Serving Suggestions
Eileen's Meat Loaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. You can also serve it with a side salad for a lighter option. For a twist, try slicing the meatloaf and adding it to a sandwich with some mustard and pickles. This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed in various ways throughout the week.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eileen'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 840 calories, with 40g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (80% of the Daily Value), iron (47% of the Daily Value), and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1440mg per serving (63% 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 meatloaf and for how long?
Yes, you can freeze meatloaf for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.
What can I use instead of bread crumbs?
If you don’t have bread crumbs, you can substitute with crushed crackers, oats, or cooked rice. Each option will provide a different texture, so choose based on your preference. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs or ground nuts.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the meatloaf to ensure it’s no longer pink inside and the juices run clear.
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).