Meat Loaf (St. Croix, Vi)
A flavorful meat loaf glazed with a tangy pineapple and mustard sauce, topped with pineapple rings, perfect for family dinners and those who enjoy sweet-savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make the sauce by combining mustard powder, water, tomato sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, and pineapple juice in a bowl.
- Shape the ground chuck into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- Spread the prepared sauce over the meat loaf.
- Top the loaf with pineapple rings.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your meat loaf, consider adding finely chopped onions or bell peppers to the mix. If you don't have red chile sauce, you can substitute it with a combination of ketchup and hot sauce for a similar kick. Also, ensure the meat is not over-mixed to keep it tender. For a different taste, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of ground chuck.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat loaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic meal. It pairs beautifully with Super Simple Chili Supper for a hearty dinner. For a lighter option, a fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the loaf perfectly. Don't forget to drizzle some extra sauce over the top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meat loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes for a crustier texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf (St. Croix, Vi) contains roughly 322 calories, with 4g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of iron (14% 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 meat loaf?
Yes, you can freeze meat loaf! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I use instead of pineapple rings?
If you don't have pineapple rings, you can use crushed pineapple or even sliced peaches for a different but delicious flavor. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if using a different fruit to ensure the meat loaf cooks evenly.
How can I tell when the meat loaf is done?
To check if the meat loaf is done, insert a meat thermometer into the center; it should read 160°F. If you don’t have one, you can also cut into the loaf and ensure there is no pink meat remaining and the juices 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).