Meat Loaf(With Sauce)
A savory meat loaf with a tangy tomato sauce glaze, combining tender ground beef, onions, bell peppers, and a sweet-savory ketchup-based topping, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place ground beef, bread crumbs, grated onions, chopped bell pepper, salt, pepper, beaten egg, and tomato sauce in a mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf in a shallow baking dish.
- Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and prepared mustard together to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the meat loaf.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until the meat loaf tests done, about 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider mixing in a few tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce or using ground turkey instead of beef. If you don’t have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oats can work as substitutes. To enhance flavor, try adding garlic powder or Italian herbs to the mixture. Be sure to check the internal temperature; it should reach 160°F (71°C) for safety.
Serving Suggestions
Meat loaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes or green beans for a comforting meal. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Consider topping each slice with additional sauce or serving it in a sandwich with crusty bread for a delicious twist. This dish also complements well with a slice of Crusty Cake for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meat loaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meat loaf and warm it in the microwave for a few minutes, or place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For best results, add a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf(With Sauce) contains roughly 653 calories, with 23g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (72% of the Daily Value), protein (46% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 577mg per serving (25% 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! After it cools completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake until warmed through.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you don’t have tomato sauce, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or a mixture of ketchup and water. Alternatively, you could use barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile, which would also pair nicely with the other ingredients.
How do I know when the meat loaf is done?
The best way to check if the meat loaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F (71°C) when inserted into the center. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can check for juices running clear and ensure the meat is no longer pink inside.
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).