Pam'S Meat Loaf
Pam's Meat Loaf is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring seasoned ground beef combined with bread crumbs, milk, eggs, and onions, baked to perfection and topped with a tangy Piquant Sauce. It's perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or comforting meals on a chilly evening.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak bread crumbs in milk.
- Add ground beef, beaten eggs, grated onion, salt, sage, and pepper to the bread crumbs and milk mixture.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Form the mixture into individual loaves and place in greased muffin pans, or form one large loaf in a greased pan.
- Cover the loaves with Piquant Sauce.
- Bake in a moderate 350°F oven for 45 minutes if using muffin pans.
- Or bake the large loaf for 1 hour.
- Serve hot, topped with additional sauce if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider mixing in some grated carrots or finely chopped bell peppers. If you're out of ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. For gluten-free options, substitute dry bread crumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. Remember to adjust cooking times if you choose smaller individual loaves.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a drizzle of additional Piquant Sauce. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or a side of roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or steamed green beans. This dish also complements classic American recipes like Roast And Potatoes.
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 the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pam'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 522 calories, with 7g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 723mg per serving (31% 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 prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance. Simply cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, shape it into loaves and bake as directed. This enhances the flavors and makes for a convenient meal prep option.
What should I do if my meatloaf is too dry?
If your meatloaf turns out dry, consider adding a sauce or gravy on top before serving. You can also mix in additional moisture, such as a splash of Worcestershire sauce or ketchup, next time you prepare it. This helps keep the meatloaf juicy and flavorful.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
To ensure your meatloaf is fully cooked, check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F using a meat thermometer. The juices should run clear, and the meatloaf should be firm to the touch. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing for the best texture.
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).