Joey'S Meat Loaf
Juicy meatloaf packed with savory flavors, enhanced by herbs and macaroni, perfect for hearty family dinners and comfort food enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, chopped onions, beaten egg, uncooked macaroni, salt, pepper, and oregano in a mixing bowl.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- Pour the water over the loaf.
- Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist meatloaf, ensure the onions are finely chopped and sauté them lightly before mixing them in. You can substitute the macaroni with cooked rice or breadcrumbs if preferred. Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor; try adding parsley or thyme. Adjust the seasoning to your taste and consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth. This dish is reminiscent of comfort food like Noodles And Ham Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Joey's Meat Loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a wholesome meal. A simple green salad or roasted carrots can complement the dish beautifully. Drizzle with barbecue sauce or ketchup for added flavor. This meatloaf pairs beautifully with American recipes like Favorite Barbecue Beans for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also slice and microwave individual portions for a quicker option, ensuring they remain moist by covering them with a damp paper towel.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Joey'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 814 calories, with 16g protein, 168g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (82% of the Daily Value), calcium (68% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2296mg per serving (100% 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 meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it a day in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.
What can I use instead of macaroni?
If you don't have macaroni on hand, you can substitute it with cooked rice, quinoa, or even breadcrumbs. Each alternative will give a different texture, but they all work well to bind the meatloaf together.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You can check this with a meat thermometer inserted into the center. Additionally, the outside should be browned and firm to the touch.
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).