Everyday Meat Loaf
This Everyday Meat Loaf is a classic comfort dish that boasts a savory blend of ground beef, spices, and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar. Perfect for family dinners, it’s easy to prepare and pairs well with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, making it a go-to for any busy home cook.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a large bowl, combine cracker crumbs, milk, ground beef, beaten eggs, grated onion, salt, pepper, sage, brown sugar, catsup, nutmeg, and dry mustard.
- Mix until well combined and shape into a loaf.
- Place the meatloaf in a baking dish and bake for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meatloaf, consider adding a bit of grated carrot or zucchini to the mixture. If you don't have cracker crumbs, bread crumbs can work as a substitute. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Adjust the spices to your taste; adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Perfect Gravy for added flavor. For a complete dinner, consider serving a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli alongside. Leftover meatloaf makes excellent sandwiches the next day!
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 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 on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Everyday Meat Loaf contains roughly 672 calories, with 10g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 553mg per serving (24% 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 meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Just remember to adjust the baking time if you’re baking it directly from the fridge.
What can I use instead of milk in the recipe?
If you're out of milk, try using chicken broth or a non-dairy milk alternative like almond or soy milk. These substitutes will still keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful, making it a versatile recipe.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. The edges should be browned, and the center should be firm but not dry.
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).