Homer'S Famous Meat Loaf
Homer's Famous Meat Loaf offers a hearty, flavorful classic with savory tomato and green pepper notes, perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the onion and green pepper.
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, eggs, bread crumbs, tomato paste, and tomato sauce (reserve half for later).
- Shape the mixture into a loaf in a large roaster.
- Spread half of the tomato sauce and some catsup over the top of the loaf and around it in the roaster.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and baste the loaf with remaining catsup and tomato sauce.
- Optionally, place precooked carrots around the meatloaf in the sauce.
- Bake an additional 45 minutes or until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, try adding Worcestershire sauce or your favorite herbs to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, substitute fresh vegetables with frozen chopped onions and peppers. For a healthier option, use ground turkey instead of beef. Remember to let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to maintain juiciness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Hamburger Tomato Soup for a complete dinner experience. A fresh green salad or steamed broccoli can add a nice crunch and freshness to your plate.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or use the microwave for quicker results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Homer'S Famous Meat Loaf contains roughly 850 calories, with 26g protein, 157g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (57% of the Daily Value), protein (53% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1082mg per serving (47% 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 for this meatloaf?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to beef. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly, so ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
How can I prevent my meatloaf from being dry?
To keep your meatloaf moist, avoid overmixing the meat mixture, as this can make it tough. Adding ingredients like diced tomatoes or grated zucchini can also help retain moisture during baking.
What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice as a breadcrumb substitute. For a gluten-free option, try ground almond meal or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
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).