Old Fashioned Herb Meat Loaf
A savory herb-infused meatloaf combining ground beef, herbs, and bread, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings. Rich flavors and moist texture delight all.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
- Lightly pat the mixture into a 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 1 hour.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider substituting 1/4 cup of milk or broth for some of the egg. If you don't have dried basil, fresh basil can be used—just increase the amount to about 1 tablespoon. Make sure to use day-old bread to help the loaf hold its shape better. If you'd like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Serving Suggestions
This Old Fashioned Herb Meat Loaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort meal. You could also serve it with a side salad for a lighter option. For a twist, try serving it with a tangy barbecue sauce or homemade gravy. Explore more American recipes that complement this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or place in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through. This will help maintain its flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Herb Meat Loaf contains roughly 454 calories, with 7g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for lean ground beef in this recipe. However, turkey may result in a drier meatloaf, so consider adding a bit more moisture, such as an extra egg or some broth, to maintain the texture.
How can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
To make this meatloaf gluten-free, replace the day-old bread with gluten-free bread or substitute it with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Additionally, check that the mustard and any other condiments used are also gluten-free.
Can I freeze leftover meatloaf?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the leftover meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above.
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).