Firehouse Meat Loaf(Made On The Spot)
A hearty, flavorful meatloaf featuring diced tomatoes, green peppers, and onions, perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering comforting, savory notes with a moist texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the hamburger, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, broken bread slices, egg, salt, and pepper well.
- Form into 2 loaves or 3 for shorter baking time and place in a baking dish, small roaster, or foil pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, uncovering the last half hour or until browned on top.
- Drain excess grease before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some Worcestershire sauce or barbecue sauce to the meat mixture. If you want a healthier alternative, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also add finely chopped mushrooms or carrots for extra moisture and nutrition. Ensure to break the bread into small pieces to help bind the mixture effectively.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Baked Beans With Bacon for a hearty dinner. You can also top it with a tangy ketchup glaze for added flavor. For a lighter option, serve with a fresh garden salad or roasted asparagus.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatloaf 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 maintain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. For the best texture, consider reheating in a low oven until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Firehouse Meat Loaf(Made On The Spot) contains roughly 700 calories, with 12g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value) and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1057mg per serving (46% 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 the meatloaf before or after baking?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf both before and after baking. If freezing before baking, shape the loaves, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. If freezing after baking, allow it to cool completely before wrapping and freezing.
What can I use instead of wheat bread?
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the wheat bread with gluten-free bread or crushed gluten-free crackers. For a low-carb alternative, you could use almond flour or crushed pork rinds as a binder. Just ensure that the texture remains cohesive for the best results.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?
To ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked, insert a meat thermometer into the center. It should read 160°F (70°C). Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and no longer pink in the center. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing to let the juices redistribute.
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).