Meat Loaf Maison
A hearty meat loaf blending beef, pork, and optional chicken livers, seasoned with herbs and topped with bacon for a flavorful, satisfying meal suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion in 2 tablespoons of olive oil until translucent.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, eggs, bread crumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, salt, basil, and thyme.
- If using, add the pureed chicken livers to the mixture for extra flavor and texture.
- Add the sautéed onions to the mixture and mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- Lay the bacon strips over the top of the meat loaf, covering as much surface as possible.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 60 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and the meatloaf is cooked through.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese or finely chopped bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, substitute fresh herbs with 1 teaspoon of dried basil and thyme each. To ensure a moist meatloaf, avoid overmixing the ingredients. Remember to let it rest before slicing for perfect portioning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meatloaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Yummy Meatballs for a delightful dinner spread. Consider drizzling some homemade gravy over the meatloaf for added richness and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf Maison contains roughly 400 calories, with 23g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 instead of beef and pork?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. Keep in mind that turkey may result in a drier meatloaf, so consider adding a bit more milk or egg to maintain moisture. Adjust cooking time as necessary to ensure it's fully cooked.
How can I enhance the flavor of the meatloaf?
Adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, grated carrots, or even a splash of barbecue sauce can enhance the flavor. You might also experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for a kick. Just be mindful of balancing the moisture content.
What can I serve with meatloaf?
Meatloaf is versatile and pairs well with many sides. Classic choices include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or mac and cheese. For a lighter option, serve with steamed green beans or a crisp coleslaw. It’s also delicious with a side of Velvet Mushroom Soup for a comforting meal.
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).