Meat Loaf, World'S Greatest
A hearty and flavorful meat loaf featuring Cheddar cheese, basil, thyme, and a tangy ketchup glaze, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Beat egg lightly in a medium bowl.
- Add Accent, salt, pepper, basil, thyme, ketchup, mustard and bread crumbs; mix well.
- Dissolve bouillon cubes in boiling water and add to the mixture.
- Add chopped celery and shredded Cheddar cheese to the mixture.
- Add ground beef and mix thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into a 12 x 5 inch loaf on a baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture and flavor, consider substituting the celery with finely chopped bell peppers or onions. If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of mustard. To enhance the dish, try adding Worcestershire sauce or BBQ sauce to the meat mixture. Using day-old bread for crumbs gives a better texture, and feel free to mix in other herbs to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of this meatloaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or steamed green beans for a comforting meal. Pair it with a fresh side salad, such as Tortellini Spinach Salad(Ready In 15 Minutes Or Less), for a balanced plate. For a twist, enjoy it on a sandwich the next day with your favorite condiments.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in short intervals, checking frequently until warmed through, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf, World'S Greatest contains roughly 538 calories, with 16g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and calcium (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2763mg per serving (120% 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, meatloaf freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake until warmed through.
What can I use instead of bread crumbs?
If you don’t have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or rolled oats can be used as a substitute. For gluten-free options, consider using gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a different texture while still holding the meatloaf together.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and juices should run clear when pierced.
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).