Simple Meat Loaf
A hearty and flavorful meat loaf that combines ground beef, bread, and savory seasonings. Perfect for family dinners, it offers a comforting, moist texture with a rich tomato flavor. Customizable with optional green pepper and served with ketchup for a classic, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, tomato sauce, egg, crumbled bread slices, green pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a 12 x 8-inch baking dish.
- Optional: Top with ketchup and green pepper for garnish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 45 minutes.
- Do not cover the baking dish during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meatloaf, consider adding 1/2 cup of grated carrots or zucchini. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute the bread with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. You can also experiment with additional seasonings like garlic powder or Italian herbs to enhance the flavor. This recipe can be adapted to create variations like Meat And Cheese Loaf for a cheesy twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh garden salad. A drizzle of ketchup on top adds a nice touch. For a heartier meal, try pairing it with creamy mac and cheese or roasted vegetables. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of Homestyle Meat Loaf for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and microwave it on a plate covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Meat Loaf contains roughly 600 calories, with 8g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (19% of the Daily Value), protein (17% of the Daily Value), and iron (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1714mg per serving (75% 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 in this recipe. However, turkey is leaner, so you may want to add a bit of extra moisture, such as a tablespoon of olive oil or a little more tomato sauce, to prevent the meatloaf from being too dry.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done baking?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and no longer pink in the center. If it needs more time, continue baking in 5-10 minute increments.
Can I freeze meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze meatloaf before or after cooking. To freeze unbaked meatloaf, shape it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then place it in a freezer bag. For baked meatloaf, let it cool completely before wrapping. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).