Meat Loaf Dinner
A hearty and flavorful meat loaf dinner featuring seasoned ground beef combined with mustard, ketchup, onion, egg, and bread. Baked to perfection, it offers a satisfying main course ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, with a savory crust and tender interior.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, spicy mustard, ketchup, chopped onion, egg, and torn bread slices.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes.
- Check doneness by cutting into the center; if it is no longer grey, the meat loaf is ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating Worcestershire sauce or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the meat mixture. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef. Don't forget to finely chop the onion to ensure even distribution and avoid large chunks in your meatloaf.
Serving Suggestions
This meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic dinner. For a twist, serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or with roasted vegetables. You can also enjoy cold slices in a sandwich, making it a versatile meal option.
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 beef broth or water to prevent drying out, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf Dinner contains roughly 285 calories, with 6g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (15% of the Daily Value) and protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 483mg per serving (21% 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 meatloaf?
Yes, meatloaf freezes well. To freeze, wrap the cooked and cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I use instead of bread in meatloaf?
If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, you can use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. Alternatively, cooked rice or quinoa can also be added for texture without using bread.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check doneness is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C). If you don't have a thermometer, ensure the center is no longer grey and the juices run clear.
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).