Kathy'S Meat Loaf
Kathy's Meat Loaf offers a hearty, flavorful dish with a moist texture, combining savory beef with a rich glaze—perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground chuck, beaten eggs, condensed vegetable soup, tomato sauce, crushed saltine crackers, and Worcestershire sauce in a large bowl; mix lightly until blended.
- Shape the mixture into a meat loaf.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 1 hour or until richly glazed.
- Mix a small amount of brown sugar and honey for the topping.
- Spread the topping over the meat loaf and heat for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider mixing in a tablespoon of dry onion soup mix or diced bell peppers. If you're out of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be a decent substitute. You can also replace the ground chuck with ground turkey for a leaner option. Experiment with different spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor. This meat loaf pairs beautifully with Priscilla'S Potato Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat loaf sliced with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic meal. For a twist, try it on a sandwich with additional ketchup or mustard. It also pairs well with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables. Complete the meal with a slice of Yummy Apple Cake for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the meat loaf cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power until warmed through, or reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kathy'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 1043 calories, with 22g protein, 198g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value), potassium (42% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1633mg per serving (71% 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 kind of meat for this meat loaf?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to ground chuck. Just be aware that these meats may require additional seasoning to enhance their flavor. Also, they might cook faster, so check for doneness a bit earlier than the recipe suggests.
How do I know when the meat loaf is done cooking?
The meat loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the meat loaf should be nicely glazed and firm to the touch. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing for the best results.
Can I freeze the meat loaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked or cooked meat loaf. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. If cooked, ensure it’s cooled completely, then wrap and store. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating or baking.
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).