Ernie'S Stove Top Meatloaf
A hearty stove-top meatloaf with savory tomatoes and salsa, perfect for comforting family dinners. Juicy and flavorful, it pairs well with mashed potatoes or rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground chuck, ground pork (or sausage), cracker crumbs, and egg to form the meatloaf mixture.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf in a large skillet.
- Pour stewed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and salsa around and over the loaf to create a sauce.
- Cook on medium heat until the meatloaf is done, approximately 1 hour, until cooked through and tomatoes form a gravy.
- Serve hot with mashed potatoes or rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding chopped onions or bell peppers to the meatloaf mixture. If you're short on time, you can substitute the cracker crumbs with breadcrumbs or even crushed cereal. Adjust the salsa level based on your spice preference, and feel free to use leftover cooked meat instead of raw ground meats for a quicker option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meatloaf hot, paired with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, like Bronco Buster Salad, complements the meal nicely. For a heartier option, you can also serve it with macaroni and cheese, making it a delightful comfort food experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, or microwave in short intervals until warmed through. Meatloaf also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ernie'S Stove Top Meatloaf contains roughly 1266 calories, with 46g protein, 182g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (92% of the Daily Value), calcium (46% of the Daily Value), and potassium (40% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 a different type of meat for this meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a combination of meats if you prefer. Just keep in mind that leaner meats might require additional moisture, so consider adding some broth or an extra egg to maintain the texture.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C). If you don't have a thermometer, you can cut into the meatloaf to ensure there’s no pink and the juices run clear.
Can I make this meatloaf in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it until you're ready to cook. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just shape it and add the sauce ingredients when you're ready to cook.
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).