Glenda'S Meat Loaf
A hearty meatloaf with a hint of sweetness from applesauce, featuring a savory blend of beef, potatoes, and onions, topped with ketchup for a classic American comfort dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, applesauce, chopped onion, chopped potatoes, eggs, and meatloaf mix. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Place the mixture into a loaf pan and shape into a loaf.
- Top the meatloaf with ketchup.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and browned on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding Worcestershire sauce or diced bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you want a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. For extra moisture, you can replace some of the applesauce with grated zucchini. This meatloaf also pairs well with recipes like Beef Brown Rice for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Glenda's Meat Loaf with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. Mashed potatoes or creamy coleslaw also complement this dish nicely. For a complete comfort food experience, consider pairing it with homemade mac and cheese or a slice of cornbread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also slice and microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Glenda'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 1142 calories, with 22g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (63% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), and protein (44% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 different types of meat for this meatloaf?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of ground meats like pork and beef. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat used.
Why do I need to add applesauce to the meatloaf?
Applesauce adds moisture and a subtle sweetness to the meatloaf, helping to keep it tender. It also acts as a binding agent, ensuring the meatloaf holds together well during baking.
How can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the meatloaf mix with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. Ensure that any sauces or condiments used, such as ketchup, are also labeled gluten-free.
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).