Meat Loaf Burgers
Juicy meatloaf burgers with savory herbs and optional cheese, perfect for grilling or oven baking, ideal for casual gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground chuck, eggs, tomato juice, stuffing mix, chopped onion, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Blend the mixture well until combined.
- Press the mixture into a 12 x 9-inch pan to form a flat layer.
- Cut into 3-inch square portions.
- Let the meat mixture set in the refrigerator for several hours.
- Bake in a preheated 375°F oven until done, or cook on a grill.
- Top with cheese if desired before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To keep your meatloaf burgers juicy, avoid overmixing the meat and allow the mixture to rest in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours; this helps the flavors meld together. For a healthier option, consider substituting ground turkey for the ground chuck. If you want to add extra flavor, mix in some Worcestershire sauce or your favorite herbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your meatloaf burgers on toasted rolls with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, pickles, and condiments. They pair wonderfully with side dishes like coleslaw or baked beans, making for a hearty meal. For a comforting dessert, consider finishing off with a slice of Decadent Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use a microwave, covering them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf Burgers contains roughly 457 calories, with 13g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value) and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1314mg per serving (57% 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 freeze the meatloaf burger mixture before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatloaf burger mixture. Just form it into patties, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking, and they should maintain their flavor and texture.
What can I use instead of tomato juice?
If you don't have tomato juice on hand, you can substitute it with vegetable juice or even a mixture of crushed tomatoes and water. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the flavor, providing a nice depth to your meatloaf burgers.
How can I tell when the meatloaf burgers are done cooking?
The meatloaf burgers are done cooking when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, they should be firm to the touch and have a nice brown crust on the outside.
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).