Lillian Dodge'S Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf with a crunchy cereal crust, savory flavors from Worcestershire and onion, topped with ketchup. Perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix grape-nuts cereal and water; let stand for 1 minute.
- Combine the soaked cereal with ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, salt, beaten egg, chopped onion, and pepper.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf in a baking dish.
- Spread ketchup on top of the meat loaf.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meatloaf, consider adding a tablespoon of milk or using ground turkey instead of beef. If you want a spicier kick, mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also substitute the ketchup with barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile. This recipe is a great base for variations, just like other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or roasted carrots. You can also use slices in a sandwich with your favorite condiments for a delicious twist, similar to how one might enjoy a Coneywich.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or bake in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until heated through. This makes for a quick meal option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lillian Dodge'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 298 calories, with 11g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (105% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2083mg per serving (91% 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 type of meat for this meatloaf?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for the ground beef. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, especially for leaner meats, to ensure it stays moist and flavorful.
How can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
To make this meatloaf gluten-free, replace the Grape-Nuts cereal with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. Always check the labels of Worcestershire sauce and ketchup to ensure they are gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.
What should I do if my meatloaf falls apart?
If your meatloaf is falling apart, it may be due to insufficient binding agents. Ensure you use enough egg, and consider adding more cereal or breadcrumbs. Letting it rest before slicing can also help it hold together better.
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).