Savory Amish Meat Loaf
A hearty, savory meat loaf with bacon topping and flavorful tomato glaze, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, combining ground meats, oats, and seasonings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the ground beef, ground pork (if using), minced onion, oatmeal or crushed crackers, salt, beaten egg, pepper, and prepared mustard until well combined.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish.
- Lay bacon slices on top of the meat loaf and pour additional tomato sauce (ketchup and tomato juice mixed) over all.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350° to 375°F for 1 hour or until the meat is cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free oats instead of crackers. Feel free to incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition. You can also experiment with different types of ground meat, such as turkey or chicken, for a lighter version of this dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat loaf with a side of mashed potatoes and green beans for a comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier dinner, consider serving it alongside American recipes like Ladies Aid Chili or Brother John'S Beef Stew. Don't forget to drizzle a bit of additional ketchup or your favorite barbecue sauce on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Savory Amish Meat Loaf contains roughly 594 calories, with 13g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (70% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1828mg per serving (79% 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 turkey instead of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef for a lighter option. Just be mindful that turkey may dry out more easily, so you might want to add a bit more tomato juice or a splash of broth to keep it moist.
What can I serve with Amish Meat Loaf?
Amish Meat Loaf pairs well with classic sides like mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, or steamed vegetables. For a more casual meal, consider serving it with a side of baked beans or a fresh coleslaw.
How do I know when the meat loaf is done cooking?
The best way to check if your meat loaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F in the center. If you don’t have a thermometer, ensure the meat is no longer pink in the middle and the juices run clear.
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).