Excellent Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf with rich tomato flavor, seasoned with aromatic spices and vegetables, perfect for family dinners and comforting meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except half of the tomato sauce in a large bowl and mix well.
- Place the mixture into a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 35 to 40 minutes.
- Remove from oven and pour off excess fat.
- Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the loaf.
- Return to oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding Worcestershire sauce or mustard to the meat mixture. If you don't have American cheese, shredded cheddar or mozzarella can be used as a substitute. For a healthier option, swap three minute oats with cooked quinoa. To keep the meatloaf moist, avoid overmixing the ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the meatloaf and serve it with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic meal. It also pairs beautifully with Easy Hearty Vegetable Beef Stew for a hearty dinner. For a lighter option, serve with a side of Garden Fresh Pasta Salad. A dollop of ketchup or barbecue sauce on top adds a nice touch.
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 the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to maintain its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Excellent Meat Loaf contains roughly 252 calories, with 11g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1469mg per serving (64% 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 freeze meatloaf?
Yes, meatloaf can be frozen. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What can I use instead of ground chuck?
You can substitute ground chuck with ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of ground beef and pork for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may result in a drier meatloaf, so consider adding a bit more moisture with ingredients like broth or extra tomato sauce.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm and not jiggly in the middle. If needed, bake it longer until it reaches the proper temperature.
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).