Meat Loaf In The Round
A hearty meat loaf baked in a round shape with cheddar cheese, savory seasonings, and a tomato sauce glaze, perfect for family dinners and comfort food gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese, bread crumbs, egg, chopped celery, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Mix well and shape into a ball.
- Place in a shallow 9-inch round pan and flatten the ball almost to the sides of the pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Pour off drippings and spread tomato sauce over the meat loaf.
- Sprinkle with 1/2 cup of remaining shredded cheese and bake an additional 15 minutes.
- Cut into pie-shaped wedges to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in minced garlic or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. If you're out of bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oatmeal can be used as substitutes. Ensure the meatloaf is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F for safety. If you prefer a tangy twist, try adding a tablespoon of Ms. Rachel'S Barbecue Sauce to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve meat loaf in wedges with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a classic meal. It pairs beautifully with Connie'S 5 Bean Casserole for a hearty dinner. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the richness of the meatloaf.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice individual portions and microwave them for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf In The Round contains roughly 1040 calories, with 34g protein, 136g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (72% of the Daily Value), protein (68% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2244mg per serving (98% 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 meat loaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat loaf mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just shape and bake it when you're ready to serve.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or use a mix of ground beef and pork for added flavor. Vegetarian alternatives like lentils or plant-based ground meat can also work well.
How do I know when the meat loaf is done?
The meat loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the center to check. If you don't have one, the meat should be firm and no longer 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).