Herbed Meat Loaves
Herbed meat loaves offer a savory combination of lean ground beef, herbs, and barbecue sauce, ideal for a cozy family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the beaten egg, herb seasoned stuffing mix, onion soup mix, and 2 tablespoons of barbecue sauce in a bowl.
- Add the raw ground beef to the mixture and mix well.
- Shape the mixture into 5 small loaves.
- Place the loaves on a baking dish, cover, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until the meat loaves are no longer pink.
- Spoon the remaining barbecue sauce over the cooked loaves before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating finely chopped garlic or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the meat mixture. If you don't have barbecue sauce, ketchup or a mix of soy sauce and honey can be used as substitutes. Ensure the meat loaves are evenly shaped for consistent cooking, and if you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
These herbed meat loaves pair beautifully with mashed potatoes or a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving them with a tangy salad or some roasted sweet potatoes for a delightful contrast. For a fun twist, serve mini loaves on slider buns with extra barbecue sauce for a casual gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meat loaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water and cover with a damp paper towel, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Meat Loaves contains roughly 208 calories, with 8g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 590mg per serving (26% 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 meat loaves before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped meat loaves before cooking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I substitute for lean ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes for lean ground beef, resulting in a lighter dish. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a combination of black beans and quinoa, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.
How can I make these meat loaves more flavorful?
You can enhance the flavor by adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the mixture. Incorporating different spices such as smoked paprika or cumin can also elevate the dish. For a richer taste, consider blending in some grated cheese or Worcestershire sauce.
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).