My So Simple Meat Loaf
A hearty, budget-friendly meat loaf combining ground beef, vegetables, and soaked bread, perfect for family dinners and comforting home-cooked meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine all ingredients well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf.
- Pour tomato sauce or ketchup on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using venison summer sausage or very lean beef instead of regular hamburger. You can also substitute the potato with mashed sweet potato for a slightly sweet flavor. If you don't have milk, broth or a plant-based milk can work as a soaking liquid for the bread. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Serving Suggestions
This meat loaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic dinner. You can also serve it with a side salad for a lighter meal. Drizzle with Baugh'S Barbecue Sauce for an added flavor kick, or enjoy it in a sandwich with your favorite condiments the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meat loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meat loaf and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave slices for 1-2 minutes, but the oven method helps maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My So Simple Meat Loaf contains roughly 752 calories, with 14g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (110% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 671mg per serving (29% 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 freeze the meat loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meat loaf before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I use instead of bread soaked in milk?
If you don't have bread, you can use cooked rice or breadcrumbs. For a gluten-free option, try gluten-free breadcrumbs soaked in a non-dairy milk. Both will help bind the meat loaf while adding moisture.
How do I know when the meat loaf is done?
The meat loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the center. If you don't have one, make sure the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink in the middle.
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).