Meat Loaf By Aunt Mary Lee
A hearty meat loaf combining beef, bread crumbs, and savory seasonings, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix beef, bread crumbs in catsup, chopped onion, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, and salt well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf shape.
- Bake the loaf in a preheated oven at 300°F for 1 hour.
- Serve hot with tomato sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meatloaf, consider adding finely grated carrots or zucchini to the mixture. If you don't have soft bread crumbs, you can substitute with crushed crackers or oatmeal for a different texture. To enhance the flavor, try adding herbs like thyme or parsley. For a kick, incorporate a teaspoon of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of meatloaf with a generous topping of warm tomato sauce for added flavor. This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes or steamed green beans. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Ranger Rice With Beef, which complements the heartiness of the meatloaf perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also freeze the meatloaf for up to 3 months; just wrap it tightly in foil before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf By Aunt Mary Lee contains roughly 784 calories, with 13g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (28% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1758mg per serving (76% 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 beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for beef in this meatloaf recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so adding a little extra moisture, such as some chicken broth or additional vegetables, can help maintain the texture and flavor.
What can I do if my meatloaf is too dry?
If your meatloaf turns out dry, consider adding a sauce or gravy on top when serving. You can also mix in a bit more ketchup or barbecue sauce into the meat mixture before baking to enhance moisture. Additionally, ensure you do not overbake it, as that can lead to dryness.
How can I make a gluten-free version of this meatloaf?
To make a gluten-free meatloaf, simply replace the soft bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Always check that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free, as some brands contain gluten. With these adjustments, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free meatloaf.
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).