New England Meat Loaf
A hearty New England meat loaf packed with flavorful mushrooms, onions, and spices, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine lean hamburger, chopped onion, chopped mushrooms, egg, tomato soup, garlic, thyme, and allspice.
- Mix well with hands until thoroughly combined.
- Crush Ritz crackers with hands and add to the mixture.
- Mix again until ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Place the mixture into a bread pan and shape evenly.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 1 1/2 to 2 hours until cooked through and browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onions and mushrooms before mixing them into the meatloaf. If you're out of Ritz crackers, crushed breadcrumbs or oats can work as substitutions. To enhance the taste, try adding Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard to the mixture. If you're looking for a low-carb alternative, consider using ground turkey instead of hamburger.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your New England Meat Loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Anchorage Opera Baked Beans for a hearty, satisfying dinner. For a fresh touch, consider a simple green salad or steamed broccoli on the side to balance the rich flavors of the meatloaf.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New England Meat Loaf contains roughly 1377 calories, with 35g protein, 195g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (221% of the Daily Value), protein (69% of the Daily Value), and iron (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1707mg per serving (74% 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 meatloaf before or after cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf before cooking by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This ensures it stays fresh for up to three months. If freezing after cooking, allow it to cool completely, then slice and store in an airtight container for easy reheating.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can substitute with a mixture of canned diced tomatoes and a tablespoon of tomato paste, or use homemade tomato sauce. This will still provide the necessary moisture and acidity to the meatloaf while imparting a delicious tomato flavor.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The meatloaf is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the loaf. Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and juices should run clear when cut.
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).