Outstanding Meat Loaf
A hearty, flavorful meat loaf with a savory onion and ketchup glaze, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a satisfying classic dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, fresh bread crumbs, eggs, water, ketchup, and onion recipe soup mix.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until cooked through.
- Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider mixing in some finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots into the meat mixture. If you prefer a slightly tangy flavor, substitute half of the ketchup with barbecue sauce. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can elevate the taste, so feel free to experiment. If you're short on time, use store-bought breadcrumbs to speed up the prep.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes or green beans for a comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. For a fun twist, try serving mini slices on a platter with cocktail toothpicks for a gathering, similar to how you might present Miniature Party Pizzas.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in short intervals until warmed through, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Outstanding Meat Loaf contains roughly 1020 calories, with 20g protein, 195g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value), calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and potassium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 850mg per serving (37% 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 beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option. Just be mindful that turkey may require additional seasoning to enhance flavor. You might also want to add a bit more moisture, such as a splash of broth or a bit more ketchup, to prevent it from drying out during baking.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure it is fully cooked. You can also check for doneness by cutting into the center and ensuring there's no pink meat remaining.
Can I freeze meatloaf?
Absolutely! Meatloaf freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm 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).