Mildred'S Meat Loaf
Mildred's Meat Loaf is a hearty and flavorful classic dish featuring tender ground beef combined with savory seasonings and a tangy ketchup glaze. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it offers a comforting taste with a hint of chili spice, making it a crowd-pleasing main course.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground chuck, eggs, bread crumbs, salt, pepper, chopped onion, and milk well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf shape.
- Mix catsup, water, vinegar, chili powder, and Worcestershire sauce and pour over the meat loaf.
- Bake, covered, for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meat loaf, consider adding grated zucchini or substituting some of the ground chuck with ground turkey. If you prefer a little kick, increase the chili powder or add diced jalapeños. If you don't have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oats work well as a substitute. Be sure to let the meat loaf rest for 10 minutes after baking for better slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mildred's Meat Loaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Fern's Dinner Rolls for a hearty dinner. For a lighter option, consider a fresh garden salad. Leftover meat loaf can also be sliced for sandwiches the next day, making it a versatile dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meat loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes. For longer storage, freeze in slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mildred'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 379 calories, with 8g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of iron (18% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), and protein (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1487mg per serving (65% 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 use a different type of meat for this meat loaf?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of ground meats. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may require additional moisture, so adding a bit more milk or an extra egg can help maintain the texture.
What can I use instead of catsup?
If you don't have catsup, you can use barbecue sauce or a combination of tomato paste and a bit of sugar and vinegar to mimic the sweetness and acidity. Adjust the seasoning based on your taste preferences.
Can I make this meat loaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before placing it in the oven, and adjust the baking time if needed.
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).