Meat Loaf With Filling
A hearty meat loaf with a flavorful filling of cracker crumbs and grated onion, perfect for family dinners and comfort food enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except the bread crumbs.
- Put half of the mixture in an ungreased pan.
- Place the bread crumbs on top of the meat mixture.
- Cover with the remaining meat mixture.
- Bake for 1 1/2 hours at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture. If you're out of cracker crumbs, crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs can work as substitutes. To enhance the moisture, try using ground turkey instead of hamburger or adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce. Ensure even cooking by mixing the ingredients thoroughly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Brent's Baked Beans for a hearty dinner. For an extra touch, top with a ketchup glaze or your favorite barbecue sauce before baking. A simple salad can also complement the meal nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf With Filling contains roughly 1196 calories, with 21g protein, 226g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (51% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2676mg per serving (116% 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 the meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze meatloaf before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F until heated through.
What can I use instead of eggs?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). These alternatives will help bind the ingredients together while keeping your meatloaf moist.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check if meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read at least 160°F in the center. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the middle and ensure there’s no pink 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).