Russian Meat Loaf
A hearty Russian meat loaf combining ground meat, vegetables, and herbs, baked to perfection and topped with tomato sauce, ideal for comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and mix thoroughly with hands.
- Mold into a loaf shape and place in an 8 x 12-inch casserole dish.
- Cover with foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 1.5 hours.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 30 minutes until browned.
- Remove from baking dish and place on a platter.
- Cover with 1 cup tomato sauce or substitute catsup.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture and flavor, you can substitute half of the hamburger meat with ground turkey or chicken. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding some chopped bell peppers or a dash of hot sauce. Ensure the mixture is well combined but avoid overworking the meat for a tender loaf. If you have fresh herbs like dill or parsley, feel free to use them instead of dried for a fresher taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Russian Meat Loaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a hearty meal. Consider serving it with a side of pickled beets or a fresh garden salad for a refreshing contrast. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can enhance the flavor. It also works great as a sandwich filling the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a baking dish, covering it with foil to prevent drying out, and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes, checking for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Russian Meat Loaf contains roughly 881 calories, with 14g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (97% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and potassium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1887mg per serving (82% 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 other types of meat for this meatloaf?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for hamburger meat, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even a combination of meats. Just be mindful of cooking times, as leaner meats may require less baking time.
What can I serve with Russian Meat Loaf?
This dish pairs well with traditional sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. For a unique twist, try serving it with pickled vegetables or a tangy sauce to complement the flavors.
How can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
To make this meatloaf gluten-free, simply replace the dry bread with a gluten-free bread option or use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure that your tomato sauce and any other condiments are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
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).