Meat Loaf (A Meal In One)
A hearty, all-in-one meat loaf with vegetables, perfect for family dinners. Juicy and flavorful, it combines savory beef with tender potatoes and carrots.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, catsup, eggs, saltine crackers, crumbled bread, salt, and pepper together.
- Beat and punch down the mixture well to make it firm.
- Shape the mixture into an oblong shape or ball and place it in a deep baking pan or dish.
- Arrange sliced potatoes, carrots, and sliced onion around the meatloaf. Add water to the pan.
- Cover and bake at 375°F for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until the vegetables are soft and cooked through.
- Ensure the water does not cook out completely; add more water if needed.
- This method keeps the meatloaf moist and flavorful.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding Worcestershire sauce or fresh herbs like parsley to the meat mixture. If you don't have saltine crackers, crushed bread or oats can serve as substitutes. Ensure you mix the ingredients thoroughly for an even texture. To prevent dryness, make sure to monitor the water level during baking and add more if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with a generous helping of the roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside American recipes like baked beans or cornbread to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a baking dish with a splash of broth or water, covering it with foil to keep it moist. Heat at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf (A Meal In One) contains roughly 1021 calories, with 29g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (67% of the Daily Value), potassium (59% of the Daily Value), and protein (58% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1517mg per serving (66% 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 instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this meatloaf. Just be aware that turkey is leaner, so you might want to add a bit more moisture, such as an extra egg or some broth, to keep it from drying out during baking.
How can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
To make this meatloaf gluten-free, simply replace the saltine crackers and bread with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that any condiments, like catsup, are also gluten-free to keep the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I freeze meatloaf?
Yes, meatloaf freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
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).