Summer Meat Loaf
A flavorful summer meat loaf combining ground beef with vegetables and a sweet ketchup glaze, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 lb. ground beef or ground chuck ⓘ
- 1/2 c. chopped onion ⓘ
- 1/2 c. shredded carrots ⓘ
- 1/4 c. chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 2 slightly beaten eggs ⓘ
- 1 1/2 c. soft bread crumbs ⓘ
- 1 c. cottage cheese, drained ⓘ
- 1 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1 tsp. poultry seasoning
- 3/4 c. catsup ⓘ
- 1/3 c. packed brown sugar ⓘ
- 1 tsp. dry mustard ⓘ
Instructions
- Mix all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Divide the mixture into three equal portions to make three meat loaves.
- Bake in the oven until cooked through and browned on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding chopped garlic or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the mixture. If you prefer a leaner option, substitute ground turkey for beef. You can also use gluten-free bread crumbs if necessary. To keep the meatloaf moist, ensure the cottage cheese is well-drained and consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the summer meat loaf with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or a baked potato. For an easy weeknight dinner, consider serving it alongside Super Simple Vegetable Soup for a comforting combination.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, slice and freeze individual pieces, then reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This helps retain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Summer Meat Loaf contains roughly 2461 calories, with 56g protein, 495g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), iron (211% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (143% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2877mg per serving (125% 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 different types of meat for this meat loaf?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a mixture of beef and pork to suit your taste. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the fat content of the meat used.
How can I prevent the meat loaf from falling apart?
You can also add finely chopped mushrooms or grated zucchini to help retain moisture and add flavor without changing the texture.
What can I serve with meat loaf for a complete meal?
Pair the meat loaf with classic sides like green beans, corn on the cob, or a hearty coleslaw. For a comforting twist, serve it with baked macaroni and cheese, or browse more American recipes for inspiration on sides that complement this dish.
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).