Favorite Beef Loaf
A hearty and flavorful beef loaf packed with savory seasonings and tender bread, ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. Its rich taste and moist texture make it a comfort food favorite that can be enjoyed hot or cold, offering a satisfying and versatile main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef with chopped onion and seasonings.
- Crumble the bread slices and soak them in warm milk.
- Add eggs to the soaked bread mixture.
- Combine the meat mixture with the egg and bread mixture.
- Shape into a loaf and place in a baking dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 60 minutes.
- Serve hot or cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist beef loaf, ensure the bread is well soaked in warm milk before mixing. You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option, or use gluten-free bread if needed. Adding grated cheese or chopped bell peppers can enhance flavor. For extra depth, consider using a splash of barbecue sauce instead of Worcestershire sauce. This dish can be served with sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beef loaf hot, garnished with fresh parsley. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic meal. For a twist, try serving it alongside a side of Barley Soup for a hearty combination. This dish also works well with a simple green salad or roasted root vegetables for a balanced plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf, place it in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Favorite Beef Loaf contains roughly 724 calories, with 11g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 725mg per serving (32% 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 leaner ground beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use lean ground beef, but keep in mind that it may result in a drier loaf. To counteract this, consider adding a tablespoon of oil or a bit more milk to maintain moisture. Alternatively, mixing in some grated zucchini can add moisture and nutrients without altering the flavor significantly.
Can I freeze the beef loaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked formed loaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, add an extra 15-20 minutes to the cooking time. If freezing leftovers, slice the loaf and store in an airtight container for easy reheating later.
What can I serve with the beef loaf?
The beef loaf is versatile and pairs well with various sides. Traditional options include creamy mashed potatoes and green beans. For a lighter meal, serve it with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables. You could also try it with a side of Frito Surprise for a fun twist on texture and flavor.
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).