Johnson Meat Loaf
A hearty, flavorful meat loaf with a savory topping, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, combining classic ingredients with a tender, moist texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine egg, crushed crackers, chopped onion, catsup, ground chuck, milk, and salt.
- Mix the meat thoroughly with your hands until the egg is fully incorporated and the tomato sauce is evenly distributed.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf shape.
- Place the shaped meat loaf into a loaf pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 1 hour.
- Halfway through baking, spread catsup on top of the meat loaf to brown and add flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced bell peppers or Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. If you’re short on crackers, breadcrumbs can be a great substitute. Make sure to mix carefully to avoid overworking the meat, which can result in a dense loaf. For a twist, try pairing it with a side of Apple-Sweet Potato Casserole for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat loaf with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort meal. For a fresh touch, consider a simple salad with vinaigrette. Leftovers make excellent sandwiches the next day, so don’t hesitate to slice it up and enjoy with your favorite condiments. It pairs beautifully with Sharon'S Lemon Delight for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meat loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meat loaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through, or reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Johnson Meat Loaf contains roughly 658 calories, with 36g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (72% of the Daily Value) and iron (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 958mg per serving (42% 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. Just remember to shape it and store it in the loaf pan covered with plastic wrap. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully before cooking.
What can I use instead of ground chuck?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, though it may result in a slightly different texture. Alternatively, ground beef or pork will also work well, providing a different flavor profile.
How can I tell when the meat loaf is done?
The meat loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the loaf. Additionally, the juices should run clear, and the top should be nicely browned.
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).