Mamie'S Meat Loaf
A hearty, flavorful meat loaf made with hamburger, eggs, saltine crackers, and tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with a classic taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Save 1/4 cup of tomato sauce and mix the remaining ingredients well.
- Shape the mixture into loaves and place on a broiler pan sprayed with Pam.
- Top the loaves with the reserved tomato sauce.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist meatloaf, avoid overmixing the ingredients. If you don’t have saltine crackers, crushed bread or breadcrumbs can work as a substitute. For added flavor, consider incorporating chopped bell peppers or garlic. If you prefer a different sauce, BBQ sauce can also be used on top. This dish is reminiscent of American recipes that emphasize hearty comfort food.
Serving Suggestions
Mamie’s Meat Loaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic meal. You can also serve it with a side of Chuckwagon Carrots for a colorful plate. Consider topping with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or serving with a tangy salad to balance the richness. For a twist, try it in a sandwich the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain its flavor and moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mamie'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 1742 calories, with 38g protein, 214g carbohydrates, and 81g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (76% of the Daily Value), iron (75% of the Daily Value), and calcium (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 Mamie’s Meat Loaf?
Yes, you can freeze Mamie’s Meat Loaf. 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. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as instructed.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can use ketchup or a homemade tomato puree as a substitute. For a bit more flavor, mix in some Worcestershire sauce or even a bit of barbecue sauce. This will give a unique twist to the meatloaf while still keeping it delicious.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check if the meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should register at least 160°F in the center. Alternatively, you can cut into the loaf to check that there is no pink meat and the juices run clear. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing for easier serving.
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).