Mom'S Award Winning Meat Loaf
A hearty, flavorful meat loaf enriched with Italian cheeses, garlic, and eggplant, perfect for family dinners and gatherings that love comforting, savory dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb chopped meat (beef, turkey, etc.) ⓘ
- 1 beaten egg ⓘ
- basil to taste ⓘ
- 1/2 cup grated Italian cheese (Romano, Parmesan, etc.) ⓘ
- garlic to taste ⓘ
- salt to taste ⓘ
- 3/4 cup bread crumbs ⓘ
- 1 small can tomato sauce ⓘ
- extra Italian cheese for topping ⓘ
- 1 large eggplant, cut into large cubes, parboiled and cooled ⓘ
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients, using 1/2 can of tomato sauce.
- Place the mixture in an oiled baking dish.
- Cover with the remaining tomato sauce and sprinkle with extra Italian cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the meat mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, ground turkey works well instead of beef. To enhance the taste, use fresh basil instead of dried. If you're short on time, store-bought breadcrumbs can be substituted with crushed crackers or oats.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs for added flavor. This meatloaf pairs beautifully with Italian Vegetables With Pasta or a side of Potatoes Italiano. A simple salad or steamed vegetables make excellent accompaniments. For a heartier meal, consider serving with garlic bread or a slice of cheesy garlic toast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice individual portions and place them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or heat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. You can also freeze the meatloaf for up to 3 months; just make sure to wrap it tightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Award Winning Meat Loaf contains roughly 563 calories, with 53g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (105% of the Daily Value), iron (84% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (76% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1492mg 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 ground chicken instead of beef or turkey?
Yes, ground chicken can be used as a substitute for beef or turkey. It will offer a lighter flavor, so consider adding more seasoning or herbs to enhance the taste. Adjust cooking time as necessary, ensuring the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I do if my meatloaf is too dry?
If your meatloaf turns out dry, consider adding a bit more tomato sauce or broth to the mixture before baking. You can also serve it with a sauce or gravy on the side to add moisture. For future recipes, ensure you're not overbaking it, as this can dry it out.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape it into a loaf and bake it the next day. This can save time on busy days, making it a convenient choice for meal prep.
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).