Not Bad Meat Loaf
A hearty meatloaf with a tangy catsup glaze, perfect for family dinners. Juicy and flavorful, it pairs well with mashed potatoes and vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the eggs lightly in a large bowl.
- Add the catsup, warm water, onion soup mix, bread crumbs, and chopped chuck to the eggs.
- Mix everything well until fully combined.
- Put the mixture into a loaf tin.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for one hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meatloaf, consider adding grated vegetables like carrots or zucchini to the mixture. If you don’t have onion soup mix, you can substitute with sautéed onions and garlic, or use a blend of dried herbs. For additional flavor, try adding Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the meatloaf and serve it warm, drizzled with extra catsup or a savory gravy. It pairs beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. For a unique twist, consider serving it with a slice of homemade fresh apple cake for dessert, balancing the savory with a hint of sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the microwave for a minute or two, or place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. It’s great served with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Not Bad Meat Loaf contains roughly 1197 calories, with 39g protein, 219g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (79% of the Daily Value), iron (71% of the Daily Value), and calcium (42% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2571mg per serving (112% 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 use ground turkey instead of chopped chuck for this meatloaf?
Yes, you can use ground turkey as a leaner alternative to chopped chuck. However, be mindful that turkey can be drier, so consider adding an extra egg or some additional moisture, like diced tomatoes, to ensure it stays juicy.
How can I tell 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 by inserting a meat thermometer into the center of the loaf. If you don’t have a thermometer, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and the juices should run clear.
Can I freeze meatloaf for later use?
Absolutely! Meatloaf freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the oven or microwave.
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).