Fred'S Favorite Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf paired with tender potatoes and carrots, flavored with tomato and seasonings, perfect for comforting family dinners and versatile for various tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, egg, chopped onion, garlic salt, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Mix well. Make a hole in the mixture and fill with about 1/4 cup of undiluted tomato soup.
- Mix again, working the tomato soup into the mixture.
- Form the mixture into a loaf and place in a 9 x 13-inch dish coated with vegetable oil.
- Dilute the remaining tomato soup with 3/4 cup water and pour over the meat loaf.
- Surround the meat loaf with chunks of potatoes and carrots.
- Season the vegetables with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 1 1/2 hours.
- Remove the foil and bake until the meat loaf is brown on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on Fred's Favorite Meat Loaf, consider using crushed saltine crackers instead of Ritz for a different flavor and texture. You can also add chopped bell peppers or celery for extra crunch. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, mix in a tablespoon of brown sugar with the tomato soup. This dish is a great way to utilize leftover vegetables or meats, making it versatile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Fred's Favorite Meat Loaf with a side of buttery mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal. It pairs beautifully with Nebraska Style Baked Beans for a hearty dinner. For a complete experience, consider serving with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices of meat loaf in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fred'S Favorite Meat Loaf contains roughly 1689 calories, with 38g protein, 256g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (76% of the Daily Value), potassium (57% of the Daily Value), and iron (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2226mg per serving (97% 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 turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still hold together well. Make sure to adjust seasonings accordingly, as turkey has a milder taste.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can use a can of crushed tomatoes mixed with a teaspoon of sugar and a bit of seasoning. Alternatively, homemade tomato sauce can also work well for a fresher taste.
Can I freeze the meat loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meat loaf before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
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).