Meat Loaf Magnifique
A hearty meatloaf with a savory blend of ground beef, pickles, onions, and a tangy catsup glaze, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Beat the egg in a deep mixing bowl.
- Break up the ground round hamburger into a bowl and add salt and pepper to taste.
- Add 1/4 cup catsup, chopped onions, chopped sweet pickle, cracker crumbs, and milk to the meat mixture.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly and form into a loaf shape.
- Place the loaf in a roasting pan and cover with tinfoil.
- Bake for 1 1/2 hours.
- If the loaf seems too dry, add a little more milk; if too wet, add more cracker crumbs.
- Remove the tinfoil during the last 5 minutes of baking and cover the loaf with additional catsup.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped bell peppers or garlic into the meat mixture. If you're out of cracker crumbs, you can substitute with breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a different texture. Adding Worcestershire sauce can enhance the umami flavor. Keep an eye on the meat loaf during the last few minutes of baking to achieve a nice glaze with the catsup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Meat Loaf Magnifique with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. It pairs wonderfully with a side of Garden Puree Soup for a light starter. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside some Spicy Hot Beans. A fresh green salad can also complement the dish well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf Magnifique contains roughly 859 calories, with 14g protein, 164g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (38% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1957mg per serving (85% 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 meat loaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat loaf mixture and shape it into a loaf up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I use instead of milk in this recipe?
If you need a dairy-free option, you can substitute milk with unsweetened almond milk, soy milk, or even vegetable broth. Each alternative will slightly change the flavor but will work well to keep the meat loaf moist.
How do I know when the meat loaf is done?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C). Alternatively, you can cut into the center; it should be no longer pink, and the juices should run clear.
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).