Meat Loaf For The Gang
A hearty meat loaf loaded with vegetables, bread crumbs, and flavorful seasonings, perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering a savory and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine eggs, V-8 juice, chopped onions, chopped celery, bread crumbs, onion soup mix, and pepper.
- Crumble the ground beef over the mixture and mix well, being careful not to overmix.
- Shape the mixture into four loaves.
- Place two loaves into each of the four loaf pans.
- Set the loaf pans into 13 x 9-inch baking pans.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. If you're out of onion soup mix, a combination of minced onion, garlic powder, and beef bouillon can work as a substitute. For a leaner option, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Make sure to mix the ingredients just enough to combine, as overmixing can result in a dense meatloaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of meatloaf with a hearty side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. A drizzle of extra ketchup or a tangy barbecue sauce on top can elevate the dish. For a fun twist, try pairing it with Sheri'S Quick Taters 'N Beef Combo for a complete family meal that everyone will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it loosely with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf For The Gang contains roughly 1039 calories, with 26g protein, 188g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (470% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (78% of the Daily Value), and protein (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2207mg per serving (96% 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. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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 for ground beef. If you don't have a thermometer, ensure the meatloaf is firm and the juices run clear when pierced.
Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
Absolutely! Finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms can be added for extra flavor and nutrition. Just ensure they are chopped small enough to blend well into the mixture, so they cook evenly.
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).