Lil'S Meat Loaf And Sauce
Lil'S Meat Loaf and Sauce offers a hearty, flavorful dish with a savory meatloaf enhanced by fresh vegetables and a tangy ketchup glaze. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, its comforting taste and simple preparation make it ideal for those craving classic American comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, ketchup, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape.
- Place the loaf in a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes, or until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meatloaf, consider adding an egg or a splash of milk to the mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you don't have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oats work well. Adding grated cheese or spices can enhance the flavor. This recipe pairs beautifully with Tater Tot Bake for a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic meal. You can also add a drizzle of extra ketchup or a savory gravy on top. For a twist, try it with a slice of crusty bread to create a meatloaf sandwich. This dish also pairs nicely with Chili Corn Bread Bake.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lil'S Meat Loaf And Sauce contains roughly 307 calories, with 9g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (163% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 897mg per serving (39% 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 leftovers of this meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm in the oven.
What can I use instead of ketchup?
If you don't have ketchup, you can use barbecue sauce, tomato sauce, or even a mixture of Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste. Each option will bring a different flavor profile to the meatloaf, so choose based on what you have on hand.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done cooking?
The best way to check if the meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F (70°C) in the center. Alternatively, you can cut into the loaf; the juices should run clear, and there should be no pink in the center.
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).