Stove Top Meat Loaf
A comforting stove top meat loaf with savory spices and a rich tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a hearty family dinner, it combines seasoned ground meat with browned onions and a flavorful tomato topping. Versatile and easy to prepare, it offers classic homemade taste with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together and shape into a meat loaf.
- Brown the top and bottom in a frying pan.
- Add a can of whole tomatoes with some chopped celery on top of the meat loaf.
- Cover and simmer for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground round steak. If you're out of dry mustard, Dijon mustard works in a pinch. To enhance the flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Worcestershire sauce. Ensure the bread is thoroughly soaked for a moist meat loaf. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a bit of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meat loaf with creamy mashed potatoes or a side of steamed vegetables for a comforting meal. A fresh garden salad or roasted Brussels sprouts would complement it nicely. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with baked macaroni and cheese. This dish also pairs beautifully with Quick And Easy Vegetable Soup for a complete dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meat loaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meat loaf and warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For best results, cover it to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stove Top Meat Loaf contains roughly 83 calories, with 1g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1813mg 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 freeze the meat loaf before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the meat loaf before cooking. Shape it into a loaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I use instead of egg in this recipe?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes). These alternatives will help bind the ingredients together while keeping the meat loaf moist.
How can I tell when the meat loaf is done cooking?
The meat loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. If you don't have one, make sure the juices run clear when cut into the center, and there should be no pink remaining in the meat.
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).