Meat Loaf With Sweet And Sour Sauce
A savory meat loaf glazed with a tangy sweet and sour sauce, this dish combines ground beef with a flavorful tomato-based mixture. The balance of sweetness, tang, and hearty meat makes it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a comforting and satisfying meal with a hint of zest.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, mix tomato sauce with brown sugar, vinegar, and mustard.
- Stir until sugar is dissolved.
- Combine egg, minced onion, crushed crackers, ground beef, salt, and pepper with 1/2 cup of the tomato sauce mixture.
- Mix lightly but thoroughly and shape into a loaf.
- Place the meat mixture into a baking dish and pour the remaining tomato sauce over it.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 1 hour, basting occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist meatloaf, ensure not to overmix the meat mixture; a gentle fold is best. If you don't have crackers, breadcrumbs can be a great substitute. Experiment with adding herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider incorporating some diced jalapeños into the mix. This dish pairs beautifully with American recipes like mashed potatoes or green beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf sliced with a generous drizzle of the sweet and sour sauce on top. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad. For a comforting meal, consider serving it alongside classic sides like roasted carrots or baked beans. This dish is also fantastic in a sandwich the next day, layered with lettuce and tomato.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf should be cooled completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf With Sweet And Sour Sauce contains roughly 610 calories, with 29g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (58% of the Daily Value) and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1426mg per serving (62% 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 ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef, but make sure to add a bit more seasoning as turkey is milder in flavor. You may also want to add a splash of olive oil to keep it moist during cooking.
How can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute regular crackers with gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs. Additionally, ensure that your mustard and tomato sauce are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this classic comfort food without gluten.
What can I do with leftover meatloaf?
Leftover meatloaf can be enjoyed in various ways. Use it as a filling for a hearty sandwich, crumble it into a salad for added protein, or chop it up and mix it into pasta sauce for a quick meal. The possibilities are endless!
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).