Sour Cream Meat Loaf
Sour Cream Meat Loaf is a savory dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef with the sweetness of grated apple and carrot, enhanced by creamy sour cream. This hearty comfort food is perfect for family dinners and is sure to satisfy meat lovers looking for a twist on the classic meat loaf.
Ingredients
- 2 lb. ground lean beef ⓘ
- 1 1/2 c. grated raw carrot ⓘ
- 1/4 c. grated unpeeled apple ⓘ
- 1 1/2 c. grated raw potato ⓘ
- 1 onion, quartered and studded with 4 cloves ⓘ
- 6 slices fried bacon, crumbled ⓘ
- 2 beaten eggs ⓘ
- 2 1/4 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 1/8 tsp. nutmeg ⓘ
- 1/8 tsp. dry mustard
- 2 c. sour cream ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl; blend well.
- Pack the mixture into a 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan.
- Bake at 350° for 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try adding chopped herbs like parsley or thyme to the meat mixture for added flavor. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, consider using ground turkey instead of beef. To keep the meat loaf moist, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of mustard to the blend. This recipe is also a great way to use up leftover vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sour cream meat loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A fresh garden salad or roasted Brussels sprouts can add a nice crunch. This dish pairs beautifully with Jiffy Beef Stroganoff for a comforting dinner combo, or try it alongside some crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover sour cream meat loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meat loaf 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 or reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sour Cream Meat Loaf contains roughly 651 calories, with 15g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (100% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and potassium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1365mg per serving (59% 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 meat loaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat loaf mixture a day in advance. Simply cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, transfer it to the loaf pan and bake as directed. This can save you time on busy weeknights.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you don't have sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. Alternatively, mixing cream cheese with a little milk can mimic the consistency of sour cream.
How do I know when the meat loaf is done?
The meat loaf is done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check this. If you don’t have one, ensure the meat loaf is firm to the touch and the juices run clear when pierced.
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).