"Great" Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf combining beef, veal, and pork with creamy mushroom soup, baked to perfection. Ideal for family dinners and comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, 1/3 cup of cream of mushroom soup, bread crumbs, chopped onion, beaten egg, and salt. Form into a loaf shape.
- Bake the loaf at 375°F (190°C) for 1 hour.
- Blend the remaining mushroom soup with 2 or 3 teaspoons of drippings and water to create a sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the baked meat loaf.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes to finish.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider mixing in a grated carrot or zucchini to the meat mixture. If you don't have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or rolled oats can work well as substitutes. To enhance flavor, try adding Worcestershire sauce or Italian seasoning. Ensure the meat loaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F for safety. Serve with a side of mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the meat loaf and serve it with a generous helping of the mushroom sauce drizzled on top. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort meal. For a twist, serve alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Consider offering a side of Ten Vegetable Beef Soup for a hearty combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meat loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meat loaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Great" Meat Loaf contains roughly 735 calories, with 13g protein, 136g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (28% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1687mg per serving (73% 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 a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, though the texture and flavor will vary slightly. Keep in mind that leaner meats may require additional moisture, so consider adding a bit more soup or water to the mixture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make the meat loaf gluten-free, substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, ensure that the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free, or make your own using gluten-free ingredients for a safe alternative.
Can I freeze the meat loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meat loaf either before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. For baked meat loaf, allow it to cool completely before wrapping. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
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).