Every Day Meat Loaf
A hearty, savory meatloaf with a moist texture and rich flavor, topped with tangy picante sauce, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak bread crumbs in milk.
- Add ground meat, beaten eggs, onions, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Divide the mixture and shape into 2 loaves.
- Place loaves in a baking dish and cover with picante sauce.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding minced garlic or chopped bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you don't have dry bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oatmeal can work as substitutes. For a twist, try mixing in some Worcestershire sauce or barbecue sauce. You can also experiment with different ground meats like turkey or chicken to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can add freshness. It pairs beautifully with Old Time Egg Custard for dessert, making it a well-rounded dinner option. For a fun twist, consider serving it on a toasted bun for a meatloaf sandwich.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in short intervals until warmed through, or reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Every Day Meat Loaf contains roughly 984 calories, with 22g protein, 151g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), iron (46% of the Daily Value), and protein (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1458mg 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 make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into loaves a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld nicely. Just be sure to adjust baking time if the loaves are coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of milk in the recipe?
If you need a dairy-free option, you can substitute milk with unsweetened almond milk or oat milk. For a richer flavor, try using beef or chicken broth instead of milk. Just ensure that the liquid you choose complements the overall taste of the meatloaf.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done cooking?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center of the meatloaf; it should read at least 160°F for ground beef or 165°F for poultry. Additionally, the juices should run clear when the meatloaf is sliced.
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).