Herbed Meat Loaf
Herbed Meat Loaf is a flavorful, moist dish combining ground beef, veal, and pork with fresh herbs and green peppers. Topped with crispy bacon, it offers a savory experience perfect for family dinners or special occasions, served with mushroom or tomato sauce for added richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground veal, ground pork, eggs, bread crumbs, chopped parsley, basil, chopped green pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Using your hands, blend the mixture well without overworking to prevent it from becoming too tightly packed.
- Line a 9-inch pie plate with aluminum foil.
- Shape the meat mixture into an oval loaf and place it on the foil-lined plate.
- Cover the top of the loaf with slices of bacon.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 hours.
- Serve hot with mushroom sauce or fresh tomato sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding minced garlic or onion to the meat mixture. For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey for the beef or pork. If you prefer a gluten-free version, use almond flour instead of bread crumbs. Avoid overworking the meat to keep the loaf tender. For a twist, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for more depth, similar to what you'd find in classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the herbed meat loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A rich mushroom sauce or a fresh tomato sauce drizzled on top enhances the flavors beautifully. For a lighter option, consider pairing it with a crisp salad or steamed green beans, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel for about 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes to maintain moisture and crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Meat Loaf contains roughly 497 calories, with 27g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (142% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), and protein (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 557mg per serving (24% 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 the herbed meat loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meat loaf. Shape it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Cooked meat loaf can also be frozen; let it cool completely, then wrap and store similarly for up to 2 months.
What can I use instead of veal?
If you prefer not to use veal, ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes. They will change the flavor slightly but will still yield a delicious result. Alternatively, you could increase the amount of beef or pork to maintain the balance of flavors in this herbed meat loaf.
How do I know when the meat loaf is done?
The meat loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. The juices should run clear, and the loaf should be firm to the touch. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to help retain its juices.
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).