Famous Meat Loaf
A classic meat loaf with savory flavors, topped with bacon and tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners, offering comfort and hearty satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground steak, eggs, bread crumbs, ketchup, warm water, and onion soup mix.
- Mix well until blended.
- Pack the mixture into a 10 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan.
- Cover the top with bacon strips if using.
- Pour tomato sauce over the top of the loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, try mixing in some chopped bell peppers or garlic into the meat mixture. If you don’t have dry bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oatmeal can be used as substitutes. For a more savory taste, consider adding Worcestershire sauce or fresh herbs. Ensure the meatloaf is well-packed for better shape during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic meal. It also pairs beautifully with Smoked Baked Beans for a delicious barbecue-style dinner. For a lighter option, consider a side salad or roasted vegetables. Leftover meatloaf sandwiches make a great lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Famous Meat Loaf contains roughly 263 calories, with 14g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron.
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 ground turkey instead of ground steak?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground steak. However, it may result in a drier meatloaf, so consider adding a bit more ketchup or moisture to the mixture.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check. It should also be firm to the touch and juices should run clear when pierced.
What can I do with leftover meatloaf?
Leftover meatloaf can be sliced and served cold in sandwiches or heated up as a main dish. Try crumbling it into pasta sauces or adding it to casseroles for a quick meal. It also makes a great addition to the Hamburger-Beans Soup.
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).