Meat Loaf (Beef)
A hearty, flavorful meatloaf with beef, vegetables, and a tangy ketchup glaze, perfect for comforting family dinners and versatile enough for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place ground beef and torn bread in a mixing bowl.
- Beat eggs and pour over the meat and bread mixture.
- Add milk and ketchup, then mix well.
- Stir in diced onion and green pepper.
- Use soy sauce to make the mixture moist as needed.
- Place the mixture into a loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding Worcestershire sauce along with the soy sauce for depth. If you don't have fresh green peppers, you can substitute with frozen or omit them entirely. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread or oats instead of regular bread. Try adding herbs like thyme or parsley for added aroma. For an easier prep, process the onion and pepper in a food processor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a comforting meal. A side of green salad adds freshness. For a twist, top the meatloaf with additional ketchup or barbecue sauce before baking. It pairs beautifully with Bernadine'S Cheese Ball for a delightful appetizer spread. Consider serving it with a tangy coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf (Beef) contains roughly 880 calories, with 17g protein, 142g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1693mg per serving (74% 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 turkey instead of beef for this meat loaf?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. However, turkey can be drier, so ensure to add a bit more moisture, such as extra milk or an additional egg. Adjust cooking time as needed since turkey may cook faster than beef.
What can I do with leftover meatloaf?
Leftover meatloaf can be sliced and used in sandwiches for a delicious lunch. You can also crumble it and use it as a topping for a salad or mix it into pasta for a hearty dish. For a quick meal, reheat it and serve it with a side of vegetables or on a bed of rice.
How do I prevent my meatloaf from falling apart?
To ensure your meatloaf holds its shape, avoid overmixing the ingredients, as this can make it dense. Using breadcrumbs or oats helps bind the mixture. Additionally, let it rest for a few minutes after baking before slicing to allow it to set, which helps maintain its structure.
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).