Marie'S Surprise Meat Loaf
A hearty meatloaf filled with savory flavors, topped with mashed potatoes, making it a comforting, satisfying dish perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan.
- Combine ground beef, chopped onion, dry bread crumbs, egg, ketchup, salt, parsley, pepper, and water in a bowl.
- Press half of the meat mixture into the prepared pan.
- Prepare mashed potatoes by mixing instant mashed potatoes with margarine, salt, and milk as per package instructions.
- Spread mashed potatoes over the meat mixture in the pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try adding finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots to the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition. If you don't have instant mashed potatoes, you can use real mashed potatoes or even cauliflower mash as a lower-carb alternative. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and consider topping with additional ketchup or barbecue sauce before baking for a flavorful glaze.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Mashed potatoes pair beautifully with Marie's Surprise Meat Loaf, creating a comforting dinner. For a complete meal experience, consider serving with garlic bread or a slice of hearty bread to soak up the juices. This dish also works well with a tangy ketchup or barbecue sauce on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it 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 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marie'S Surprise Meat Loaf contains roughly 725 calories, with 15g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (37% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1782mg per serving (77% 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 or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, but keep in mind that they may require additional seasoning due to their milder flavor. Consider adding extra spices or herbs to enhance the taste, and monitor the cooking time as lean meats can cook faster.
What can I serve with meatloaf?
Meatloaf is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Popular options include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or a simple garden salad. For a comforting touch, consider serving with a side of macaroni and cheese or cornbread for a hearty American meal.
How do I know when the meatloaf is cooked through?
To check if the meatloaf is fully cooked, insert a meat thermometer into the center; it should read at least 160°F (71°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, make a small cut in the center — the juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
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).