"Nine To Five" Meat Loaf
A savory meat loaf with a tangy tomato and mustard flavor, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering, offering a balanced blend of spices and moisture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, tomato sauce, chopped onion, Dijon mustard, chopped green pepper, and salt in a bowl.
- Place the mixture in a metal bread pan.
- Cover and refrigerate for 8 to 24 hours.
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Bake on the lowest shelf of the oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove and place under the broiler for 5 minutes.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before cutting and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful meat loaf, consider adding garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce. If you’re out of Dijon mustard, yellow mustard can work as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different. You can also mix in breadcrumbs for better texture. For a healthier option, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. This dish is also great for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Val'S Beef Stew for a hearty dinner. You could also top it with a quick homemade glaze of ketchup and brown sugar for added sweetness. For a twist, consider serving it in a sandwich form, similar to a Super Burger.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 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. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Nine To Five" Meat Loaf contains roughly 193 calories, with 5g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1972mg per serving (86% 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. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. To bake from frozen, increase the cooking time by about 50%. If freezing after baking, ensure it’s completely cooled, then slice and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Can I add vegetables to the meat loaf?
You can also try adding cooked spinach or mushrooms for a different flavor profile.
What can I serve with meat loaf?
Meat loaf pairs well with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or corn. For a lighter option, serve with a mixed greens salad. You might also enjoy it with a side of roasted vegetables or a baked potato. For a fun twist, consider making meat loaf sandwiches with leftover slices.
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).