Meat Loaf(Published In Southern Living)
A hearty meat loaf with a moist interior and tangy ketchup topping, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking rich flavors and satisfying portions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine bread and milk in a small bowl.
- Allow to soak for 5 minutes.
- Combine ground beef, chopped onion, beaten eggs, salt, and bread mixture; mix well.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf.
- Place in a lightly greased 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan.
- Combine remaining ingredients and pour over the meat loaf.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour or until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped garlic or Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. If you're out of day-old bread, you can use breadcrumbs or crushed crackers as a substitute. Ensure the ground beef is not too lean to keep the meat loaf moist. For a twist, try adding herbs like thyme or parsley for freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat loaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans for a comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with Baked Rice Casserole for a hearty dinner. For a fresh touch, consider a side salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meat loaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply slice the meat loaf and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf(Published In Southern Living) contains roughly 695 calories, with 6g protein, 157g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value), iron (12% of the Daily Value), and protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1529mg per serving (66% 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 meat loaf?
Yes, meat loaf freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or store in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I use instead of ketchup?
If you want to substitute ketchup, consider using barbecue sauce or a mix of tomato paste with a splash of vinegar and a bit of sugar for sweetness. This will still provide that tangy flavor while changing up the profile slightly.
How can I tell when the meat loaf is done?
The best way to check if your meat loaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F in the center. Alternatively, you can cut into the loaf to check that it is no longer pink in the middle and the juices run clear.
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).