Meat Loaf Stew
Meat Loaf Stew is a hearty, comforting dish featuring savory meat patties simmered with fresh vegetables and a rich tomato-based sauce. The combination of herbs, Parmesan, and a flavorful broth makes it perfect for family dinners and cozy gatherings, offering a satisfying blend of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the ground beef, Italian bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced onion, and chopped parsley until well combined.
- Form the mixture into patties about 2 inches thick and 3 inches in diameter.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and brown the patties on both sides.
- Add sliced carrots, potatoes, water, and ketchup to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45-60 minutes until vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
- Add frozen peas in the last 10 minutes if using, and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating chopped bell peppers or mushrooms into the meat mixture. If you're out of Italian bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oats can work as substitutes. Adjust the seasoning with your favorite herbs or spices, such as garlic powder or Italian seasoning, to enhance the depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf stew hot with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables can make a refreshing side. This dish pairs beautifully with Barbecue Casserole for a comforting dinner idea.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stew in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, or microwave in a bowl covered with a damp paper towel, checking every minute until warmed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf Stew contains roughly 2303 calories, with 13g protein, 149g carbohydrates, and 189g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value), potassium (28% of the Daily Value), and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1112mg per serving (48% 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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for the ground beef. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as leaner meats may cook faster. Adjust seasonings accordingly to complement the different flavors.
How do I know when the meatloaf patties are fully cooked?
The patties should be browned on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can check doneness by cutting one open to ensure there is no pink meat inside. The stew should be bubbling and the vegetables tender.
Can I make this stew in advance?
Absolutely! This stew actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it a day ahead, allow it to cool, and refrigerate. Just reheat gently before serving to enjoy the full depth of flavors.
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).