Meat Loaf From Heaven
A hearty meat loaf with fresh herbs, savory bacon, and tangy chili sauce topping, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking rich, flavorful flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and celery in butter until tender.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, sautéed vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, chopped parsley, sour cream, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well blended.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place in a baking dish.
- Spread Heinz chili sauce over the top of the loaf.
- Place two strips of bacon on top of the chili sauce.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let sit for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meatloaf, you can substitute half of the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Make sure to finely chop the vegetables for even cooking. For a different flavor profile, consider mixing in some Italian seasoning or using barbecue sauce instead of Heinz chili sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the meatloaf and serve it with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic meal. For a hearty twist, pair it with a side of Donna'S Winter Barley Soup. A simple garden salad can also complement the dish well, adding freshness and crunch. Don't forget to drizzle extra Heinz chili sauce on the side for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and microwave it on medium power until warmed through, or place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This helps retain moisture and keeps the flavors intact.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf From Heaven contains roughly 544 calories, with 23g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (49% of the Daily Value), protein (46% of the Daily Value), and iron (35% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1210mg per serving (53% 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 make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you don't have sour cream, Greek yogurt or cottage cheese can be great substitutes. They provide a similar tangy flavor and moisture. If you need a dairy-free option, try using unsweetened coconut yogurt or silken tofu blended until smooth.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) as measured by a meat thermometer. Additionally, the juices should run clear, and the top should be browned. Let it rest for 15 minutes after baking before slicing to help retain its juices.
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).