No-Work Meat Loaf
A simple, hearty meat loaf with savory flavors of tomato and herbs, perfect for a quick family dinner or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, tomato sauce, stuffing mix, egg, salt, and pepper well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf in a shallow baking or jelly roll pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding chopped onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you don't have tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes or a can of tomato soup can work in a pinch. Make sure to mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning throughout the loaf.
Serving Suggestions
This No-Work Meat Loaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or a side of green beans for a comforting meal. You can also serve it with a fresh garden salad for a refreshing contrast. For a fun twist, slice it and serve on a bun for meatloaf sandwiches. Consider browsing more American recipes for additional sides to complement this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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, heating on medium power until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, which helps maintain the texture of the meatloaf.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of No-Work Meat Loaf contains roughly 720 calories, with 13g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 609mg per serving (26% 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 baking?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped meatloaf before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This is a great way to have a homemade meal ready to go on a busy day.
What can I use instead of herb seasoned stuffing mix?
If you don't have herb seasoned stuffing mix, you can use plain breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning or dried herbs like thyme and rosemary. This will still give you a flavorful base for the meatloaf. Adjust the salt accordingly, as some stuffing mixes are saltier than others.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check if the meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should register at least 160°F (70°C) in the center. If you don't have a thermometer, you can cut into the middle and ensure there's no pink remaining. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
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).