Irene'S Meat Loaf
Irene's Meat Loaf is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring seasoned ground meat, peppers, and a tomato-based glaze, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- Grease a casserole dish and pour in 1/2 cup water.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 55-60 minutes, or until browned.
- Near the end of baking, spread catsup on top of the meat loaf.
- Bake until the top is really brown for better flavor and appearance.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also incorporate finely chopped mushrooms or zucchini for moisture and nutrition. If you don’t have soda crackers, breadcrumbs or rolled oats work well as substitutes. To enhance the taste, try adding Worcestershire sauce or garlic powder to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Festive Corn Salad for a fresh contrast. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside No-Fat Grilled Potato Slices. Don't forget to drizzle some extra catsup or barbecue sauce on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meat loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meat loaf and microwave it on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Irene'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 1216 calories, with 113g protein, 143g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (226% of the Daily Value), iron (184% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (181% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1012mg per serving (44% 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 make this meat loaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat loaf mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just shape it into a loaf and bake it when needed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or tomato paste mixed with a little water. For a different flavor profile, consider using barbecue sauce or even a salsa, which can add a nice kick to the meat loaf.
How can I tell when the meat loaf is done?
The best way to check if the meat loaf is done is by using a meat thermometer. It should register at least 160°F (70°C) in the center. Additionally, the meat loaf should be nicely browned on the outside and firm to the touch. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing for easier serving.
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).