Meat Loaf Masterpiece
A hearty meatloaf infused with barbecue sauce and fresh parsley, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering rich flavors and satisfying comfort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, beaten egg, chopped onion, bread crumbs, barbecue sauce, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Place the mixture in a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan.
- If desired, form a groove lengthwise along the top of the loaf 1/2 inch deep and pour additional barbecue sauce into the groove.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture and flavor, consider mixing in finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute the bread crumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers. You can also swap out the barbecue sauce for ketchup or a homemade sauce for a different flavor profile. Always make sure to season your mixture well to enhance the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meatloaf masterpiece with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. A rich gravy or additional barbecue sauce on top can elevate the flavors further. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced dinner. For a twist, try serving it alongside the Meat Loaf With Applesauce for a delightful sweet and savory combination.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf Masterpiece contains roughly 626 calories, with 20g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (62% of the Daily Value), protein (40% of the Daily Value), and potassium (36% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 880mg per serving (38% 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 freeze meatloaf?
Yes, meatloaf freezes well. Before baking, wrap the assembled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. You can also freeze baked meatloaf slices for easy meals later.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the center of the loaf. Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and no longer pink in the middle.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the beef if you prefer. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of meat used. Each will impart its unique flavor to the meatloaf, so feel free to experiment with your favorite blends.
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).