Little Cranberry Meat Loaves
Sweet and savory cranberry meat loaves feature tender beef, rice, and a tangy cranberry glaze, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings with rich flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef with cooked rice, tomato juice, beaten egg, minced onion, Kitchen Bouquet, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Shape the meat mixture into 5 individual loaves.
- Place the loaves in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- In a separate bowl, combine cranberry sauce, brown sugar, and lemon juice to make the topping.
- Spoon the cranberry mixture over the loaves.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 40 minutes.
- Remove the loaves to a warm serving platter.
- Pour the cranberry sauce from the pan over the loaves or pass separately.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or parsley to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free alternative. Adjust the sweetness of the cranberry topping by varying the brown sugar to your taste, and try adding a dash of cinnamon for warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the little cranberry meat loaves with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. They pair beautifully with roasted vegetables or buttery corn. For a complete meal, consider serving with a slice of crusty bread and a glass of red wine. This dish also works well as part of a cozy family dinner, perfect for winter nights.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meat loaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them covered with a damp paper towel for about 2-3 minutes, checking for doneness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Little Cranberry Meat Loaves contains roughly 736 calories, with 23g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 894mg 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 the meat loaves before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped meat loaves before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of Kitchen Bouquet?
If you don't have Kitchen Bouquet, you can substitute with a mixture of soy sauce and a small amount of water to achieve a similar depth of flavor and color. Alternatively, a homemade beef stock can be used for added richness without the added coloring.
How do I know when the meat loaves are done?
Ensure the meat loaves are cooked through by using a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into one of the loaves; 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).