Linda'S Country Meat Loaf
Linda's Country Meat Loaf offers hearty flavors with a blend of ground meat, vegetables, herbs, and tomato paste, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix eggs, ground meat, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, chopped celery, parsley, and chopped garlic together to make 2 loaf-sized pans or 4 mini loaves.
- Add 4 ounces of dressing and half of the can of tomato paste to the mixture and mix well.
- Arrange the loaves in the pans. Mix remaining dressing and tomato paste.
- Pour the dressing and tomato paste mixture over the top of the loaves.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist meatloaf, consider adding a splash of milk or Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. If you're out of bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oats can work as substitutes. Feel free to customize the veggies; grated zucchini or shredded carrots can add moisture and nutrition. To enhance the flavor, try adding some Italian seasoning or smoked paprika.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Linda's Country Meat Loaf with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. A side salad or steamed green beans can add freshness. Consider pairing it with a tangy dipping sauce or a slice of warm bread. This dish pairs beautifully with Peaches And Cream Tart for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, which helps retain the meatloaf's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Linda'S Country Meat Loaf contains roughly 1416 calories, with 50g protein, 257g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (121% of the Daily Value), protein (99% of the Daily Value), and potassium (76% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1147mg per serving (50% 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 meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly. You can also freeze the uncooked meatloaf for up to 3 months; just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
What type of ground meat should I use?
You can use any combination of ground meat you prefer, such as beef, pork, or turkey. For a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well. Mixing different meats can enhance flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment based on your taste preferences.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done cooking?
The best way to check if your meatloaf is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. It should read at least 160°F in the center. If you don't have a thermometer, you can cut into the loaf; it should be firm and no longer pink in the middle.
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).