Grandma'S "Beef Loaf"
A hearty and flavorful meatloaf featuring ground beef, vegetables, and a savory sauce, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, cracker crumbs, beaten eggs, chopped onion, diced green pepper, and salt thoroughly.
- Divide the mixture evenly into loaf pans or shape into a loaf on a baking sheet.
- Dribble the season sauce on top of the beef mixture in the loaf pans or over the shaped loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the juice runs clear and the internal temperature reaches safe levels.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the season sauce with a homemade mixture of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce. You can also use crushed cornflakes instead of cracker crumbs for a gluten-free option. Ensure the onions and green peppers are finely chopped for even cooking. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the mixture. For a twist, try incorporating ingredients from similar dishes like Cheesy Stuffed Burgers.
Serving Suggestions
This beef loaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables, making for a comforting meal. You can also serve it with a side salad for a fresh contrast. For a heartier option, consider serving with Beef-Onion Rice Mix. Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or serve with a tangy barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the beef loaf and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices using the Magetti-Microwave for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S "Beef Loaf" contains roughly 260 calories, with 7g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value) and protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 510mg per serving (22% 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 ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. Keep in mind that turkey may require slightly different cooking times and may not be as flavorful as beef, so consider adding more seasonings or herbs to enhance the taste.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The meatloaf is done when its internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the juices run clear. You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Alternatively, cut into the center to check for any pinkness, which indicates it needs more cooking.
Can I freeze the beef loaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meatloaf or leftovers. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed.
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).