Sandy'S Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf filled with melted Velveeta cheese, combining savory flavors with a cheesy surprise inside, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 to 2 lb. ground round beef ⓘ
- 1 cup cracker crumbs or quick oatmeal ⓘ
- 1 medium green pepper, chopped (optional) ⓘ
- 1 medium onion, chopped (optional) ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1 egg ⓘ
- 3/4 cup catsup
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons Heinz 57 sauce ⓘ
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups Velveeta cheese, diced ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except for the cheese in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape two-thirds of the mixture into a pond-shaped form on a covered cookie sheet.
- Place the diced Velveeta cheese in the center of the meat mixture.
- Cover the cheese with the remaining meat mixture to enclose it.
- Spread catsup over the top of the assembled meat loaf.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 1 hour until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the mixture. If you don't have cracker crumbs, quick oats work just as well. You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Remember to let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to ensure it holds its shape. If you're looking for more hearty dinner ideas, browse more American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Sandy's Meat Loaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes or steamed green beans for a comforting meal. A drizzle of extra catsup or a side of your favorite barbecue sauce can elevate the flavors. This dish pairs beautifully with Betty's Chili Bean Bake or Beef Barbecues for a hearty family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers 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 the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sandy'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 289 calories, with 7g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of calcium (16% of the Daily Value) and protein (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1849mg per serving (80% 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 make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and shape it into the loaf a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together. You can also freeze the unbaked meatloaf for up to 3 months, then thaw and bake when needed.
What can I substitute for Velveeta cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, you can substitute with a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar for a similar creamy texture. Alternatively, mozzarella cheese will also melt nicely and provide a mild flavor. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to your taste preference.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
To ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 160°F (70°C). Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and juices should run clear. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing for best results.
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).