Firehouse Meat Loaf
A hearty meatloaf with a savory tomato sauce glaze, perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering comforting flavors and a tender, juicy texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour 12 ounces of tomato sauce over the ground meat and reserve the remaining sauce.
- Add cracker crumbs, chopped onion, egg, salt, and black pepper to the meat mixture. Combine until uniform.
- Pack the mixture into a large loaf pan.
- Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top of the loaf.
- Bake for 1 to 1 1/4 hours or until the loaf is firm and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
- Pour off the grease and reserve for gravy.
- In a skillet, fry 1 chopped onion in hot fat.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon Season-All and 4 heaping tablespoonfuls of flour to the skillet.
- Pour in enough water to make a medium-thick gravy, stirring until smooth.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture and flavor, consider mixing in some diced bell peppers or garlic. You can substitute crushed crackers with breadcrumbs or oats if needed. To make it spicier, add a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. Ensure to pack the meat mixture firmly into the loaf pan for a better shape and texture during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Firehouse Meat Loaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal. Consider serving it with a side of green beans or roasted vegetables. For a comforting twist, serve with a generous drizzle of the homemade gravy on top, complementing the dish perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can also slice and freeze portions for up to 3 months, thawing them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Firehouse Meat Loaf contains roughly 439 calories, with 14g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1460mg 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 use a different type of meat for this meatloaf?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a mixture of meats like pork and beef. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may require extra moisture to prevent dryness.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done cooking?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) and is firm to the touch. You can also check if it pulls away from the sides of the pan, indicating it is cooked through.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just shape it in the loaf pan and bake when ready. This allows the flavors to meld together even more.
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).