Little Meat Loaf
A hearty and flavorful meatloaf with a crunchy cornflake coating, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings, combining savory beef with fresh vegetables and tangy tomatoes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Break eggs into a bowl and beat slightly.
- Add all ingredients except the crushed corn flakes.
- Stir quickly with a fork to combine.
- Divide the mixture into six parts.
- Shape each part into an oblong loaf.
- Roll each loaf in crushed corn flakes to coat.
- Place the loaves in a greased pan.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating different vegetables like grated carrots or zucchini into the mixture. If you prefer a spicier kick, try adding a dash of hot sauce. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger for a lighter option. Using unsalted crackers helps control the saltiness, especially since the recipe already includes salt.
Serving Suggestions
These little meat loaves pair beautifully with a side of Hot Mustard Potato Salad for a hearty meal. Consider serving them with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced plate. For a comforting twist, serve with a side of Aunt Jo's Baked Beans, which complements the meat's savory flavors perfectly.
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 (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them on medium power, but be cautious not to overcook, as this can dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Little Meat Loaf contains roughly 839 calories, with 13g protein, 171g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (155% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (143% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (134% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2251mg per serving (98% 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 little meat loaves?
Yes, you can freeze the meat loaves before or after baking. If freezing before cooking, shape them, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. If freezing after baking, let them cool completely before wrapping and freezing.
What can I use instead of crushed corn flakes?
If you don't have crushed corn flakes, you can use breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips as a coating. For a gluten-free option, try crushed gluten-free cereal or almond flour. These alternatives will provide a similar texture and crunch to the meat loaves while still enhancing their flavor.
How do I know when the meat loaves are done?
To check if the meat loaves are done, use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Alternatively, you can cut one open to check that the meat is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear. This ensures the meat is thoroughly cooked and safe to eat.
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).