Mom'S Meat Loaf
Mom's Meat Loaf is a classic comfort food that combines lean ground beef with flavorful seasonings and a touch of tomato. Its savory profile and hearty texture make it perfect for family dinners or potlucks. This dish is sure to please both meat lovers and those looking for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and mix well together.
- Shape the mixture into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake in the oven until fully cooked.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist meatloaf, consider adding grated carrots or celery along with the onions. If you don’t have saltine crackers, crushed breadcrumbs or oats can work as substitutes. Mixing in some Worcestershire sauce or barbecue sauce can enhance the flavor as well. You can also try adding finely chopped mushrooms for added moisture. This recipe can be adapted into a comforting dish like Everyday Meat Loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mom's Meat Loaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic meal. A side salad can provide a refreshing contrast. For a twist, try pairing it with a tangy barbecue sauce. It also complements well with dishes like Three Bean Casserole. Leftover slices are great in sandwiches the next day!
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf should be cooled completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave for a couple of minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 221 calories, with 6g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (22% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1271mg per serving (55% 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 beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Keep in mind that turkey may yield a slightly different texture and flavor, so consider adding a bit more seasoning or moisture, like broth, to enhance the taste.
What can I do if my meatloaf is too dry?
If your meatloaf turns out dry, you can try adding more moisture when making it next time by incorporating ingredients like milk, ketchup, or finely grated vegetables. For serving, consider topping it with a drizzle of gravy or a sauce to add moisture.
Is it possible to freeze meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze meatloaf either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).