Meat Loaf And Sauce
A classic comfort food featuring a savory ground meat loaf glazed with tangy ketchup. Juicy and flavorful, it's perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The moist meat mixture is complemented by a simple homemade sauce, appealing to those who enjoy hearty, satisfying dishes with a touch of nostalgia.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground chuck, cracker crumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, salt, and 2 tablespoons of catsup until well combined.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Spread the remaining 2 tablespoons of catsup over the top of the meat loaf during the last 15 minutes of baking, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meat loaf, consider adding finely grated carrots or zucchini to the mixture. If you don't have cracker crumbs, stale bread can be a great substitute. To enhance flavor, try mixing in Worcestershire sauce or Italian seasoning. For a fun twist, experiment with different types of meat, such as ground turkey or chicken, as a lighter alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your meat loaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Rave-Bringing Cauliflower Salad for a refreshing crunch. For a heartier option, consider a side of baked beans or roasted vegetables. This dish also makes excellent sandwiches when served cold or at room temperature.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meat loaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meat loaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf And Sauce contains roughly 633 calories, with 14g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value) and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1800mg per serving (78% 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 other types of meat for this meat loaf?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful that leaner meats may require additional moisture, such as extra milk or egg, to prevent drying out.
What can I do if my meat loaf is too dry?
If your meat loaf turns out dry, it may be due to overbaking or not enough moisture in the mixture. To remedy it, serve it with a flavorful sauce or gravy. You can also add a little ketchup or barbecue sauce to the meat mixture before baking next time to enhance moisture.
How can I make a vegetarian version of this recipe?
To create a vegetarian meat loaf, substitute the ground chuck with lentils, black beans, or a meat alternative like tempeh or seitan. Use oats or breadcrumbs as a binder and incorporate vegetables like onions, carrots, and bell peppers for added flavor and 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).