Ethella'S Meat Loaf
Ethella's Meat Loaf is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring seasoned ground beef mixed with eggs, crackers, and onions, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together thoroughly.
- Place the mixture in an 8 x 8-inch pan, rounding the edges.
- Bake for 1 hour at 350°F (175°C).
- Drain off excess fat once the meatloaf is cooked.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the small onion before mixing it into the meatloaf. If you want a healthier alternative, you can substitute ground turkey for hamburger. Additionally, crushed oats can replace crackers for a gluten-free option. Use fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to enhance the taste, or try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ethella's Meat Loaf with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic comfort meal. It pairs beautifully with Michigan Baked Beans for a hearty side. Consider adding a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. For a twist, top with barbecue sauce or cheese before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ethella'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 892 calories, with 18g protein, 149g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (116% of the Daily Value), iron (65% of the Daily Value), and calcium (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1075mg per serving (47% 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 different types of meat for this meatloaf?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork as substitutes for hamburger. Each will give the meatloaf a unique flavor and texture. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly, so always check for doneness.
What can I add to make the meatloaf more moist?
To increase moisture, add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the mixture. You can also incorporate some ketchup or barbecue sauce into the meat mixture, or add an extra egg for richness.
Can I freeze meatloaf for later use?
Absolutely! After baking, let the meatloaf cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
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).