Meat Loaf - Hunt'S Style(With Sweet Sour Sauce)
A hearty meat loaf with a tangy sweet and sour sauce, combining savory ground beef with vegetables, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, egg, chopped onion, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into one large loaf or two smaller loaves.
- Place the loaves in a shallow baking dish about 1 1/2 inches deep.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 60 minutes, or until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful meat loaf, consider adding minced garlic or Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. If you want to reduce carbs, substitute bread crumbs with crushed oats or ground flaxseed. You can also use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Make sure not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the meat loaf and serve it with the sweet sour sauce drizzled on top for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic meal. For a twist, serve alongside a side salad or with crusty bread. You can also explore similar recipes like Rotel Meat Loaf for new variations.
Storage & Reheating
After cooling, store leftover meat loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf - Hunt'S Style(With Sweet Sour Sauce) contains roughly 136 calories, with 2g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 632mg per serving (27% 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 a different type of meat for this meat loaf?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly. If using a leaner meat, consider adding a bit of olive oil to keep the meat loaf moist.
How can I tell when the meat loaf is done cooking?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C). If you don't have a thermometer, make sure the juices run clear when you cut into the center.
What can I do to prevent the meat loaf from falling apart?
To prevent crumbling, ensure that your mixture has enough binder, like bread crumbs or oats, and that it's well mixed. Allowing the meat loaf to rest for about 10 minutes after baking can also help it hold together better when 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).