Grandma'S Meat Loaf
A hearty, flavorful meat loaf with a crispy crust, combining ground beef, rice cereal, and barbecue sauce. Perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients in a large bowl and mix with your hands.
- Press the mixture into a loaf shape on a broiler pan to allow excess fat to drain.
- Use a knife to make lines across the top of the loaf to help fat drain during baking.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a slightly different flavor, consider substituting the barbecue sauce with ketchup or a homemade sauce. Adding chopped onions or bell peppers can enhance the taste, while using crushed crackers instead of Rice Krispies can provide a different texture. Ensure to mix the ingredients gently to keep the meatloaf tender. For even cooking, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for 160°F.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grandma's Meat Loaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate. For an easy weeknight dinner, consider serving it alongside Dana'S One Dish Meal for a filling and satisfying experience.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the meatloaf cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the meatloaf in slices or as a whole wrapped in freezer-safe packaging. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes, or microwave in short intervals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 135 calories, with 5g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 3g 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 ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. Keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so you may want to add a bit more moisture, such as an additional egg or some broth, to ensure the meatloaf remains juicy. Adjust seasonings to your taste as well.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center of the meatloaf; it should read 160°F. If you don't have a thermometer, you can cut into the middle to check that it's no longer pink and the juices run clear.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake it. Alternatively, you can also bake it ahead of time and reheat it when needed. Just be sure to cool it completely before storing.
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).