Meatloaf

Prep: 15 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

A comforting homemade meatloaf with a tangy tomato and mustard glaze, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, delivering savory flavors and hearty texture.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lb. lean ground beef
  • 1 cup bread crumbs
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 small diced bell pepper
  • 1 medium diced onion
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • salt and pepper
  • 2 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp. mustard
  • 2 Tbsp. mustard

Instructions

  1. Mix ground beef, bread crumbs, beaten egg, diced bell pepper, and diced onion together. Season with salt and pepper. Place mixture into a loaf pan.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup tomato sauce, vinegar, and mustard to make the topping. Pour over the meatloaf.
  3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.

Tips & Substitutions

For added moisture, consider using a mixture of ground beef and ground pork. You can also substitute the bread crumbs with crushed crackers or rolled oats for a different texture. If you prefer a sweeter topping, add brown sugar to the tomato sauce mixture. To enhance flavor, try adding Worcestershire sauce or garlic powder to the meat mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the meatloaf sliced with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or crusty bread. For a twist, try serving it with a side of barbecue sauce for dipping or alongside a hearty Beef Or Chicken Stew for a full dinner spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, cover the meatloaf with foil to prevent it from drying out. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Meatloaf contains roughly 968 calories, with 15g protein, 193g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (35% of the Daily Value), protein (30% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2430mg per serving (106% of the Daily Value).

968 kcal 48% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 14.9g 30% DV
Total Fat 15.9g 20% DV
Carbs 192.6g 70% DV
Fiber 1.5g 5% DV
Sugar 36.1g 72% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2429.8mg 100% DV
Potassium 1135.1mg 24% DV
Cholesterol 439.8mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 168mcg 19% DV
Vitamin C 19.6mg 22% DV
Calcium 459.9mg 35% DV
Iron 4.9mg 27% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 meatloaf?

Yes, meatloaf freezes well. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What can I use instead of tomato sauce?

If you don't have tomato sauce, you can use ketchup as a substitute for a sweeter taste. Alternatively, crushed tomatoes or a homemade tomato puree can work well. Consider adding herbs to enhance the flavor.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer. The juices should run clear, and the meatloaf should be firm to the touch.

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).

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