Never-Fail Meat Loaf
A hearty, reliable meat loaf with simple ingredients, ideal for family dinners and freezing. Versatile and satisfying, it offers classic comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Toast the bread and then grind it into crumbs.
- Combine all ingredients thoroughly, including ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, milk, onion salt, salt, and butter.
- Line 16 loaf pans with foil.
- Divide the meat mixture equally into the prepared loaf pans.
- Optionally, place three strips of bacon over each loaf before baking.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving or freezing.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh bread to make crumbs, as stale bread can yield a dry meat loaf. You can substitute onion salt with finely chopped onions if you prefer a fresher taste. Additionally, adding chopped bell peppers or garlic can enhance the flavor profile. For a twist, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, which will still deliver delicious results.
Serving Suggestions
This meat loaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic American meal. You can also serve it with a rich tomato sauce or gravy on top for extra flavor. For a lighter option, consider a side salad or roasted vegetables. It also works well in sandwiches the next day, making it a versatile dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meat loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through to ensure it remains moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Never-Fail Meat Loaf contains roughly 25 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 493mg per serving (21% 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 meat loaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and form it into loaves, then wrap them tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This helps the flavors meld beautifully. Alternatively, you can bake it ahead of time and reheat as needed.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of ground pork and beef for different flavors. Each option will provide a unique twist on the classic meat loaf. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat used.
How do I know when the meat loaf is done?
The meat loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer inserted into the center. The loaf should also be firm to the touch and 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).