Mama'S Meat Loaf
Mama's Meat Loaf offers a comforting, savory dish with tender ground beef enhanced by onions and a flavorful seasoning. The cracker crumbs and milk create a moist texture, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Its classic flavors appeal to all ages and pair well with hearty sides.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, beaten eggs, salt, black pepper, cracker crumbs, and milk.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture into a 9 x 13 inch pan and shape into a loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 60 minutes or until cooked through.
- Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some minced garlic or using Italian-style cracker crumbs. If you don't have crackers, breadcrumbs or even oats can work as substitutes. To ensure the meatloaf remains moist, avoid overmixing and consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or barbecue sauce into the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mama's Meat Loaf with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort meal. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables. For a twist, try serving slices on a bun for a hearty meatloaf sandwich, or alongside a portion of Spaghetti Bake (Very Easy Dish That Kids Love!!) for a family-friendly dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mama'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 643 calories, with 25g protein, 122g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (139% of the Daily Value), iron (90% of the Daily Value), and calcium (56% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1391mg per serving (60% 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 ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option. However, turkey can be drier, so consider adding an extra egg or a bit more milk to keep the meatloaf moist.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. The outside should be browned, and juices should run clear when cut.
Can I freeze meatloaf?
Yes, meatloaf freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
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).