Miss Mona'S Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf combining ground beef and seasoned pork sausage, baked with tomato sauce topping for a flavorful, comforting meal suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all the ingredients together in a large bowl.
- Add more milk if the mixture is too dry.
- Place the mixture in a loaf pan.
- Bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 1 hour.
- About 15 minutes before the meat loaf is done, spoon some tomato sauce over the top.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, try incorporating minced garlic or chopped bell peppers into the meat mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute ground turkey for the beef or use whole grain bread crumbs instead of white. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and consider using low-sodium Worcestershire sauce for a lighter version. This recipe is a great base for experimenting with spices and herbs, similar to Mom'S Mealtime Meat Loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Miss Mona's Meat Loaf with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort meal. A side of homemade coleslaw can add a refreshing crunch. For a heartier option, pair it with a side of Delicious Rice Dish. Leftover meat loaf sandwiches make a fantastic lunch option, especially with a dash of ketchup or your favorite sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meat loaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meat loaf and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave slices for 1-2 minutes, but be cautious not to overcook and dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Miss Mona'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 362 calories, with 9g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (33% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1556mg per serving (68% 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 the meat loaf before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked meat loaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I use instead of bread crumbs?
If you don't have bread crumbs on hand, crushed crackers or cornmeal can be used as substitutes. Alternatively, finely ground oats can also work well, providing a similar texture and binding without gluten.
How can I tell when the meat loaf is done?
The meat loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can also check for doneness by cutting into the center; the juices should run clear, and there should be no pink meat remaining.
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).