Granny'S Meat Loaf
Granny's Meat Loaf offers a hearty, savory dish with a moist texture and rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, onions, and celery. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, its comforting taste and straightforward preparation make it a timeless classic suitable for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients (reserve enough tomato sauce for topping).
- Mold the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a loaf pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes or until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider mixing in a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or ketchup. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground chuck with a mix of lentils and finely chopped mushrooms. To keep the meatloaf from becoming too dense, ensure you don't overmix the ingredients. You can also experiment with adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Granny's Meat Loaf with a generous topping of tomato sauce for added flavor. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic meal. This dish also pairs beautifully with Mmm Good Bars for a sweet finish. For a lighter option, consider a fresh garden salad on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a baking dish with a splash of beef broth or water, cover with foil, and heat in a 300°F (150°C) oven until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. This helps maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Granny'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 714 calories, with 13g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value), calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1878mg per serving (82% 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 meatloaf after cooking?
Yes, you can freeze cooked meatloaf. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed.
What can I use instead of bread crumbs?
If you don't have bread crumbs on hand, you can use crushed crackers, rolled oats, or even cooked rice as a substitute. For a gluten-free option, try using almond flour or gluten-free bread crumbs. Each will alter the texture slightly, but they will still provide the necessary binding.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check if your meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F (70°C) when fully cooked. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the center; it should be no longer pink and the juices should run clear.
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).