John'S Meat Loaf
A hearty, flavorful meatloaf combining ground beef, onion soup mix, and tangy ketchup, perfect for comforting family dinners and easy to prepare ahead of time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, mustard, water, egg, catsup, brown sugar, onion soup mix, and enough bread crumbs to make the mixture firm.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in a baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding finely chopped bell peppers or carrots to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition. If you're out of onion soup mix, you can substitute with a blend of dried onion flakes, garlic powder, and beef bouillon. Be sure not to overmix the beef to keep the meatloaf tender. Use fresh breadcrumbs for a better texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve John’s Meat Loaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes or green beans for a comforting meal. For a heartier option, pair it with creamy macaroni and cheese or a fresh garden salad. Leftovers make excellent sandwiches, so consider using them in a hearty meatloaf sandwich for lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply slice the meatloaf and microwave it for 1-2 minutes, or place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze slices for longer storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of John'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 1037 calories, with 22g protein, 195g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (46% of the Daily Value), calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and protein (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 923mg per serving (40% 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 ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe, but be aware that the texture and flavor will change slightly. Adding a bit more seasoning or some olive oil can help maintain moisture and flavor.
What can I use instead of catsup?
If you don't have catsup, you can use barbecue sauce or a homemade tomato sauce as a substitute. Both will add a different flavor profile, but will work well with the other ingredients in the meatloaf.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check if the meatloaf is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. It should read at least 160°F (70°C) in the center. Alternatively, you can cut into the meatloaf to check that the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.
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).