Mom'S Dinner Meat Loaf
A hearty meatloaf packed with savory flavors, topped with ketchup for a tangy finish. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with comforting appeal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown and drain ground beef.
- Lightly sauté onion and bell pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and mix thoroughly with your hands.
- Spray a 9 x 13-inch Pyrex baking dish with cooking spray.
- Put the meat mixture into the baking dish and pack it well.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for about an hour.
- Drain off any excess grease that cooks out of the meatloaf.
- Spread ketchup over the top of the meatloaf and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moisture-rich meatloaf, consider adding a splash of milk or substituting some of the beef with ground turkey. If you prefer a spicier kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Ensure that you mix the ingredients thoroughly for even flavor distribution. If you're short on time, you can use quick-cooking oats instead of regular oats.
Serving Suggestions
Mom's Dinner Meat Loaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort meal. You can also serve it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter option. For a festive touch, consider serving alongside Christmas Eve Soup for a heartwarming dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the meatloaf for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes, but be cautious as it may dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Dinner Meat Loaf contains roughly 383 calories, with 7g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1586mg per serving (69% 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 meat mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before baking for even cooking.
What can I substitute for tomato juice?
If you don't have tomato juice, you can use a combination of diced tomatoes and broth, or even vegetable juice. Alternatively, a homemade blend of blended tomatoes with a bit of water can work as a suitable substitute.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and have no pink juices when sliced.
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).