Manhattan Meat Loaf
Manhattan Meat Loaf is a savory twist on a classic dish, featuring tender ground beef infused with whiskey and vermouth, layered with ham and cheese for a delectable flavor combination. Perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings, this meat loaf is sure to impress with its rich taste and hearty texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°.
- Spray cookie sheet with Pam.
- Spread wax paper on counter.
- Roll ground beef into a large ball.
- Place ground beef on wax paper.
- Punch a hole in the beef with your fist.
- Crack and drop egg into the well.
- Ring the top of the well with ketchup.
- Ring the bottom of the well with bread crumbs.
- Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Sprinkle on the whiskey and vermouth.
- Knead the entire mixture until all is combined.
- Add more bread crumbs if necessary.
- Spread out an 18-inch piece of wax paper.
- Transfer mixture to the wax paper.
- Roll out into a rectangle 5 x 9 x 1/4-inch.
- Alternate ham and cheese slices on top.
- Roll up like a jelly roll.
- Tuck in all corners.
- Place on the greased sheet.
- Bake for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a juicier meatloaf, consider mixing ground beef with a bit of ground pork. You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or oats for a different texture. If you prefer a bolder flavor, add minced garlic or onion. Ensure the whiskey and vermouth are well incorporated for the best taste, similar to the depth found in Cocktail Meatballs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Manhattan Meat Loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. A fresh salad can also balance the richness. For a fun twist, pair it with a cocktail inspired by your favorite American recipes, or enjoy it as a sandwich with your favorite condiments.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, or reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Manhattan Meat Loaf contains roughly 513 calories, with 14g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (72% of the Daily Value), iron (56% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1737mg per serving (76% 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?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of whiskey and vermouth?
If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute with beef broth or a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water for acidity. This will still provide moisture and flavor without the alcohol content, making it a family-friendly option.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the center. Alternatively, the meatloaf should be firm and no longer pink in the middle. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing for the best texture.
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).