Meat Loaf(Kid'S Favorite)
A kid-friendly meat loaf with cheesy center, savory flavors, and a tender texture, perfect for family dinners and easy to customize with favorite seasonings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, chopped onion, crushed crackers, beaten egg, half of the catsup, and salt and pepper together well.
- Take half of the mixture and put it in a large greased loaf pan, leaving an indentation in the middle lengthwise.
- Place grated Cheddar cheese in the indentation in the middle of the meat mixture.
- Cover the cheese with the remaining meat mixture and seal the ends and sides to prevent cheese from leaking out.
- Spread about 3 tablespoons of catsup on top of the loaf.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease. If you don't have crackers, breadcrumbs can be a great substitute. You can also experiment by adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition. If your kids enjoy variety, serve the meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes, which pairs beautifully with this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a well-rounded meal. Mashed potatoes, a classic pairing, can also enhance the dish. For a fun twist, consider offering a side of ketchup or barbecue sauce for dipping. This dish is perfect for family dinners or even packed in lunchboxes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes to maintain its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf(Kid'S Favorite) contains roughly 764 calories, with 20g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value), calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1139mg per serving (50% 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 this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, simply shape it into a loaf and follow the baking instructions. This saves time on busy days and allows flavors to meld together.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese?
If Cheddar isn't your favorite, you can substitute with mozzarella or even pepper jack for a little kick. Each cheese will give a different flavor profile, so feel free to experiment based on your family's preferences.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
To ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 160°F. Another method is to cut into the center; the juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink.
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).