Layered Meat Loaf
Layered Meat Loaf offers a hearty and flavorful dish combining seasoned ground beef with savory stuffing, baked to perfection. Its layered presentation makes it perfect for family dinners or gatherings, providing a satisfying main course with rich flavors and moist texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch x 5-inch loaf pan.
- Combine ground beef, minced onion, milk, salt, and pepper; mix thoroughly.
- Prepare the herb-flavored bread stuffing mix as directed on the package.
- Fill the prepared loaf pan with 3 layers of the meat mixture and 2 layers of stuffing mixture, beginning and ending with the meat.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Serve hot or cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped garlic or herbs like parsley or thyme into the meat mixture. If you don’t have herb-flavored bread stuffing, you can use plain stuffing and add your own seasonings. To make this dish even heartier, layer in cooked vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots.
Serving Suggestions
This layered meat loaf is delicious served with mashed potatoes or a side salad for a complete meal. Consider pairing it with green beans or roasted vegetables for added nutrition. It also goes well with a tangy barbecue sauce or ketchup for dipping. For a comforting dinner, serve alongside mashed potatoes or browse more American recipes for tasty side options.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave on medium power until heated through. This ensures the meatloaf remains moist and flavorful.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Layered Meat Loaf contains roughly 222 calories, with 10g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (142% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1274mg per serving (55% 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 freeze the layered meat loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the layered meat loaf before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, use lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat. Adjust seasonings accordingly to enhance flavor.
How do I know when the meat loaf is done?
The meat loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer. Additionally, the juices should run clear when you cut into it, 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).