Momma'S Meat Loaf
A hearty, flavorful meatloaf with savory tomato sauce topping, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a classic, satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place hamburger meat in a large bowl.
- Add salt, pepper, catsup, eggs, and chopped onion.
- Mix well until ingredients are combined.
- Add crushed crackers and shape mixture in a large baking pan.
- Bake for about 30 to 35 minutes.
- Drain off excess grease from the meatloaf.
- Pour tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and brown sugar over the meatloaf.
- Return to oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding chopped bell peppers or using seasoned breadcrumbs instead of plain crackers. If you're out of tomato paste, you can substitute with additional tomato sauce. Ensure the meatloaf is well combined but not over-mixed to keep it tender. For a zesty kick, try adding Worcestershire sauce or even a touch of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Momma's Meat Loaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. A fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables would complement the dish nicely. For a fun twist, try it on a sandwich with your favorite condiments for lunch. It pairs beautifully with Corn 'N Cabbage as a side dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a baking dish covered with foil, warming it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual slices for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Momma'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 622 calories, with 23g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (72% of the Daily Value), protein (46% of the Daily Value), and iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2007mg per serving (87% 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 make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Additionally, the juices should run clear when you cut into it, and the exterior should be nicely browned.
What can I use instead of hamburger meat?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Alternatively, for a different flavor, try using ground pork or a mix of meats. Just note that the cooking time may vary slightly based on the meat you choose.
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).