Meat Loaf(For Those Who Don'T Like Dry Meat Loaf)
A moist and flavorful meat loaf with a savory blend of spices, vegetables, and a tomato topping, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix milk, eggs, and all spices (not tomato sauce).
- Add bite-sized bread chunks and let soak.
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef and vegetables; add the milk and bread mixture. Blend well (hands work best).
- Turn the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and hand form into two low meat loaves.
- Press four fingers in a line into each meat loaf to make three channels on top of each loaf.
- Cover the top of each loaf with cracker crumbs, then spread tomato sauce over them.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Serve hot; can be cut in half or doubled for a crowd.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra moisture, consider using 80/20 ground beef instead of leaner cuts. You can substitute crushed crackers with breadcrumbs or panko for a gluten-free option. If you prefer a kick, try adding diced jalapeños. Incorporating finely chopped mushrooms can enhance flavor and moisture without altering the taste significantly. Remember to mix gently to avoid overworking the meat.
Serving Suggestions
This meat loaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic dinner. For a twist, serve it with a side of mac and cheese or a fresh salad. You can also slice it thinly for sandwiches the next day. Consider drizzling with additional tomato sauce or serving with barbecue sauce for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 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, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes for a crispy exterior.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf(For Those Who Don'T Like Dry Meat Loaf) contains roughly 20 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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
What should I do if my meat loaf is falling apart?
If your meat loaf is crumbling, it might be due to insufficient binding. Ensure you use enough egg and soaked bread. If it still falls apart, try adding a tablespoon of ketchup or barbecue sauce to the mixture for added moisture and binding properties.
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).