Meat Loaf Or Meat Balls
A comforting meat loaf made with seasoned ground meat, breadcrumbs, and onion soup mix, perfect for family dinners and versatile enough to be used as meatballs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground meat, catsup, eggs, bread crumbs, Accent, warm water, and onion soup mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped bell peppers or minced garlic. If you're out of breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats can be a great substitute. Adjust the seasoning to taste, and if you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. This meatloaf recipe can also be shaped into meatballs if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic dinner. It pairs beautifully with Mother'S Sliced Sweet Potato Pie for dessert. You can also slice it cold for sandwiches the next day, adding your favorite toppings or condiments for a delightful lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze the meatloaf for up to 3 months; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf Or Meat Balls contains roughly 888 calories, with 33g protein, 164g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (66% of the Daily Value), iron (57% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1784mg per serving (78% 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 turkey or chicken instead of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Just keep in mind that these meats are leaner, so you may want to add a little extra fat, like olive oil or additional catsup, to keep the meatloaf moist.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The best way to check for doneness is by using 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 it.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and place it in the loaf pan a day in advance. Cover it and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes for a convenient meal prep option.
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).