Meat Loaf For 50 People
A hearty meatloaf with savory bread crumbs, tender ground beef, and aromatic sage, perfect for feeding a crowd with comforting, classic flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak bread crumbs in milk.
- Add ground beef, eggs, grated onion, salt, pepper, and sage to the bread crumb mixture.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- Form the mixture into loaves and place in 6 loaf pans.
- Cover the loaves with Piquant Sauce.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding minced garlic or chopped bell peppers to the mixture. If you prefer a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use gluten-free bread crumbs for a gluten-free version. For a spicier kick, mix in some diced jalapeños. Make sure to soak the bread crumbs long enough for optimal texture.
Serving Suggestions
Meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for added nutrition. For a twist, top with Hot Wiener Sauce for extra flavor or serve with crusty bread to soak up the juices. It also makes a great sandwich filling for leftovers.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a baking dish covered with foil, warming it in a 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual slices for 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf For 50 People contains roughly 396 calories, with 6g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 464mg per serving (20% 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 for later use?
Yes, you can freeze meatloaf before or after cooking. To freeze before cooking, shape the mixture into loaves and wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. If frozen after cooking, slice it and store in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.
What can I serve with meatloaf?
Meatloaf is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Traditional options include mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables. You might also enjoy it with a side of baked beans or a fresh garden salad. For bread lovers, serve with crusty rolls or garlic bread to complement the dish.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done cooking?
The best way to check if meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read at least 160°F in the center. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the meatloaf; it should be no longer pink and the juices should run clear. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
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).