Matrimonial Meat Loaf
Matrimonial Meat Loaf is a hearty, flavorful dish combining ground beef, sausage, and cheese, baked in a savory tomato sauce. Its rich taste and satisfying texture make it perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a comforting and nostalgic meal with a blend of spices and cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the ground beef, sausage, eggs, chopped green pepper, chopped onion, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper together well, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated.
- Place the mixture into a 9 inch x 13 inch baking dish.
- Cover the meat loaf with the can of tomato sauce and add a little water.
- Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until the meat loaf is done.
- Let it rest before cutting into 3/4 inch slices.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider substituting half of the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. If you prefer a spicier kick, use hot sausage instead of regular. To enhance the flavor, sauté the chopped onions and green peppers before mixing them in. Ensure the meat loaf is well blended but avoid overmixing to keep it tender.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the matrimonial meat loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Great Baked Beans for a classic American-style dinner. For a lighter option, consider a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, slice the meat loaf and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave for a quick option. Adding a splash of tomato sauce while reheating can help maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Matrimonial Meat Loaf contains roughly 432 calories, with 27g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1257mg per serving (55% 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 meat loaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to adjust the baking time as needed if the loaf is cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of yellow American cheese?
If yellow American cheese isn't available, you can substitute with cheddar cheese for a sharper flavor or mozzarella for a milder taste. Both options will melt nicely over the meat loaf. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses based on your personal preference.
How can I tell when the meat loaf is done?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, ensure the meat loaf is nicely browned on the outside and juices run clear when you cut into it. Letting it rest before slicing will also help maintain its juiciness.
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).