Margie'S Meat Loaf
A hearty meatloaf with savory flavors of beef, tomato, and onions, perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering a comforting, homemade taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl: ground beef, crushed soda crackers, eggs, tomato soup, diced onion, salt, and pepper.
- Place the mixture into an ungreased meat loaf pan or a Pyrex dish.
- Bake for 1 hour until cooked through and browned on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating minced garlic or Worcestershire sauce into the meat mixture. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef. When using soda crackers, crushed breadcrumbs can serve as a suitable substitute, providing a similar texture. Adjust the salt based on the sodium content of the tomato soup you choose.
Serving Suggestions
Margie's meat loaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic comfort meal. You could also serve it alongside a simple salad or with a side of Down Home Beans for a hearty combination. For extra flavor, drizzle with barbecue sauce or ketchup before serving.
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, heating in 30-second increments until warmed through. For a crispy texture, reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Margie'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 962 calories, with 20g protein, 128g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (214% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and iron (44% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1055mg per serving (46% 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 a different type of meat for this meat loaf?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a blend of pork and beef for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly based on the meat used.
How can I tell when the meat loaf is fully cooked?
The best way to check if the meat loaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should register at least 160°F in the center. Additionally, the loaf should be firm and browned on the top.
Can I freeze the meat loaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meat loaf wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap for up to 3 months. To cook, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. Cooked meat loaf can also be frozen for later enjoyment.
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).