Meat Loaf He Loves
A flavorful meatloaf featuring savory ground beef, topped with rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Combines classic ingredients for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thoroughly mix all ingredients, except tomato sauce, using hands.
- Form into a loaf shape and place in a loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Pour off excess fat from the loaf.
- Spread a can of tomato sauce on top of the meatloaf.
- Bake an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a juicier meatloaf, consider adding grated carrots or zucchini to the mixture. If you're out of bread, crushed crackers work well as a substitute. To enhance flavor, try adding Worcestershire sauce or Italian seasoning. Ensure that the mixture is well-blended but avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense loaf. For a twist, top with barbecue sauce instead of tomato sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the meatloaf and serve with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic meal. It pairs beautifully with Grandma'S Tomato Beef Soup for a comforting dinner. For a lighter option, serve with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. A side of garlic bread also complements the dish nicely, adding a touch of warmth to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice individual portions and microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf He Loves contains roughly 387 calories, with 7g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1257mg per serving (55% 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 or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef in this recipe. However, keep in mind that poultry may result in a drier meatloaf, so consider adding a bit more moisture with ingredients like diced vegetables or an additional egg.
What can I use instead of ketchup?
If you don’t have ketchup, you can use barbecue sauce or a combination of tomato paste and a little vinegar or honey for sweetness. This will change the flavor profile slightly, but it will still provide the necessary moisture and tang to the meatloaf.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
To ensure your meatloaf is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F (70°C) in the center. Alternatively, you can cut into the loaf; the juices should run clear, and there should be no pink in the middle.
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).