Meat Loaf(Children'S Favorite)
A classic kids' favorite meatloaf with tender ground beef, flavorful onions, green peppers, and a tangy catsup topping, perfect for family dinners and comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften bread or oats in milk.
- Add beaten eggs, chopped onions, catsup, black pepper, chopped green pepper, and mix well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf shape.
- Place in a greased baking pan and bake until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For an added flavor boost, try incorporating finely chopped garlic or herbs like parsley or thyme into the meat mixture. If you're out of ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option. You can also use crushed crackers instead of bread or oats for a different texture. For a zesty kick, mix in a dash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of this meatloaf with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic meal. It also pairs beautifully with a side of baked beans or a simple green salad. For a fun twist, consider serving it with BBQ sauce or ketchup on the side. This dish can be a great centerpiece for family dinners or gatherings.
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 the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf(Children'S Favorite) contains roughly 765 calories, with 19g protein, 127g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value), calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 696mg per serving (30% 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 make meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for a quicker meal on busy days.
What can I use instead of eggs in meatloaf?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of mashed bananas for each egg. Alternatively, you can use 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, letting it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The best way to check if the meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F in the center. If you don't have a thermometer, ensure the meatloaf is browned on the outside and no pink juices run when you cut into it.
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).