Meat Loaf Recipe
A hearty and flavorful meat loaf featuring ground chuck, onions, and a savory tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners, it offers a comforting classic taste with simple ingredients and easy preparation, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying homemade meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground chuck, chopped onion, salt, pepper, crumbled crackers, beaten egg, and tomato sauce well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf.
- Prepare additional tomato sauce to pour over the loaf before baking.
- Bake until cooked through, approximately 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, try adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or some minced garlic to the meat mixture. If you don’t have ground chuck, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. To make it gluten-free, substitute the crackers with crushed gluten-free breadcrumbs. For added moisture, mix in a tablespoon of milk or broth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with classic sides such as mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with Golden Broccoli Soup for a hearty dinner. For a twist, try slicing the meatloaf and serving it in a sandwich with your favorite condiments. Don’t forget a side of roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in the microwave until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes, or reheat in an oven at 350°F until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf Recipe contains roughly 1424 calories, with 81g protein, 157g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (162% of the Daily Value), iron (69% of the Daily Value), and potassium (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1358mg per serving (59% 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 very well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in the oven until heated through.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check if meatloaf is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. It should register an internal temperature of 160°F. Another method is to ensure the juices run clear when you cut into it. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist.
Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
Absolutely! Adding finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini can enhance the flavor and add moisture. Just be sure to sauté them first to remove excess moisture, which can affect the texture of the meatloaf.
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).