Erma'S Meat Loaf For Freezing
Erma's Meat Loaf combines ground beef and pork with vegetables and seasonings, offering a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for freezing and serving in large quantities.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend celery, onions, and green pepper in a blender.
- Add the blended vegetables, eggs, bread or cracker crumbs, black pepper, applesauce, catsup, and salt to a large pan.
- Add ground beef and ground pork to the mixture and combine thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into loaves or place into loaf pans according to desired serving sizes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/2 hours.
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving or freezing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a different flavor, consider adding Worcestershire sauce or mustard to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner version, or use gluten-free breadcrumbs if necessary. If you prefer a sweeter taste, try using barbecue sauce in place of catsup. Blending the vegetables ensures they are well incorporated, providing moisture and flavor throughout the meatloaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Erma's Meat Loaf with mashed potatoes for a comforting meal, or pair it with roasted vegetables for a healthier option. A side of homemade biscuits would complement the dish beautifully. Consider drizzling some extra catsup or barbecue sauce on top before serving for added flavor. This dish also makes great sandwiches the next day!
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes. For a quicker option, slice and microwave individual portions until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Erma'S Meat Loaf For Freezing contains roughly 406 calories, with 18g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 478mg per serving (21% 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 make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before placing it in the oven for even cooking.
What can I do with leftover meatloaf?
Leftover meatloaf can be sliced and used in sandwiches, paired with eggs for a hearty breakfast, or crumbled into a Beefy Bean Soup for a delicious twist. You can also reheat it and serve with a side salad for a quick meal.
How can I ensure my meatloaf stays moist?
To keep your meatloaf moist, avoid overmixing the meat mixture, which can lead to a dense texture. Adding ingredients like applesauce and finely chopped vegetables helps retain moisture. Baking it at the correct temperature and not overcooking is also key to achieving a tender loaf.
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).