Mommy'S Meat Loaf
Mommy's Meat Loaf is a hearty, comforting dish featuring a savory beef mixture topped with a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze. The addition of bell pepper adds a fresh crunch, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Its rich flavors and tender texture appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the lean hamburger with 1/2 cup of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, crumbled bread, milk, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf in a casserole dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the remaining 1 1/2 cups of ketchup with the brown sugar to create the glaze.
- Pour the ketchup mixture evenly over the meatloaf.
- Slice the bell pepper into rings and place them on top of the meatloaf for garnish.
- Bake uncovered for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until the top is almost burning.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in finely chopped onions or garlic with the meat mixture. If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be a suitable substitute. To keep the meatloaf moist, avoid overmixing and consider using a leaner cut of beef. Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or green beans for a comforting meal reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with a generous side of mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a hearty dinner. It pairs beautifully with Savory Harvest Cabbage for a balanced meal. For a casual lunch, slice the meatloaf and make sandwiches, or enjoy it with a side salad for a lighter option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also slice and microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, making it a convenient meal option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mommy'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 942 calories, with 14g protein, 182g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (30% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1175mg per serving (51% 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 ground turkey instead of hamburger?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative if you're looking for a leaner meat option. Just be aware that turkey can be drier than beef, so you might want to add a little extra milk or an additional egg to keep it moist.
How can I make the meatloaf gluten-free?
To make this meatloaf gluten-free, substitute the crumbled bread with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. Ensure that the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free as well, as some brands contain gluten.
What can I do if my meatloaf falls apart?
If your meatloaf crumbles, it may be due to insufficient binding agents. Ensure you use enough egg and bread to hold it together. If it continues to be an issue, adding a bit of grated cheese can also help bind the mixture.
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).