Half Time Meat Loaf
Half Time Meat Loaf offers a hearty, flavorful twist on classic comfort food with savory beef, aromatic onion, and parsley, topped with tangy ketchup. Its straightforward preparation makes it perfect for a satisfying family dinner or quick weeknight meal, delivering tender meatloaf with a delicious glaze.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, egg, crumbled bread, milk, chopped onion, chopped parsley, salt, and dry mustard in a mixing bowl.
- Shape the mixture into 4 loaves.
- Place the loaves in a baking pan, spoon ketchup over the top of each loaf, and spread evenly.
- Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To add moisture and flavor, consider mixing in some grated carrot or zucchini. If you don’t have bread, crushed crackers or oats can work as a substitute. For a bit of heat, try adding a dash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños. If you'd like a different flavor, experiment with seasonings like Italian herbs or Worcestershire sauce. This recipe is a great base for variations found in classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. A fresh garden salad or steamed green beans can add a nice balance. For a twist, try it with a tangy barbecue sauce instead of ketchup, or pair it with a slice of bread for a hearty sandwich. This dish pairs beautifully with Beef Vegetable Casserole for a filling dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftover meatloaf to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or store it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes or microwave on medium heat until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Half Time Meat Loaf contains roughly 520 calories, with 12g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (59% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and potassium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2236mg per serving (97% 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 ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef in this recipe. However, keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so you might want to add a bit of olive oil or additional moisture to prevent the meatloaf from being dry.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F. Alternatively, you can cut into the center to ensure it's no longer pink and the juices run clear.
Can I freeze the meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked or cooked meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking or reheating.
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).