Meat Loaf With Sausage
A hearty meat loaf with sausage and tomato flavors, ideal for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a savory, filling dish with a crispy top.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, thoroughly mix ground chuck, sausage, cracker crumbs, chopped onion, salt, and pepper.
- Divide the mixture into two equal portions and shape into loaves.
- Place the loaves in a baking dish.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Spread tomato paste over the top of each loaf.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 45 minutes, for a total of 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in chopped bell peppers or garlic with the meat mixture. If you don’t have cracker crumbs, crushed breadcrumbs or even oats can work as a substitute. You can use turkey sausage for a lighter option or replace ground chuck with ground turkey for a healthier version. Experiment with herbs like thyme or parsley for extra seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic meal. It also pairs beautifully with Easy Baked Beans With Sausage for a hearty spread. Consider drizzling a bit of extra tomato sauce over the top before serving, and don't forget fresh bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Heat in the microwave in short intervals until heated through, or bake in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf With Sausage contains roughly 158 calories, with 6g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1098mg 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 freeze meatloaf?
Yes, meatloaf freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check if your meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F (70°C) in the center. Additionally, the juices should run clear when you cut into it.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you don’t have tomato sauce, you can substitute it with ketchup or a mixture of crushed tomatoes and a dash of vinegar. Some people also enjoy using barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile.
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).