Super Simple Meat Loaf
A comforting and flavorful meat loaf with seasoned stuffing and a savory tomato juice glaze, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, herb seasoned stuffing, tomato juice, egg, and crushed crackers, mixing together well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in a shallow baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 1/4 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding diced onions, minced garlic, or Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. If you don't have herb seasoned stuffing, plain breadcrumbs mixed with dried herbs can work as a substitute. For a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef. Ensure the meatloaf is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F for safety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh Garden Fresh Pasta Salad for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, slice it and make meatloaf sandwiches. It also pairs beautifully with a rich gravy or barbecue sauce for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F, place the meatloaf in a baking dish, cover it with aluminum foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Super Simple Meat Loaf contains roughly 758 calories, with 18g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 625mg per serving (27% 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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even a mixture of beef and pork for added richness. Just ensure that the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safety.
What can I do if my meatloaf is too dry?
If your meatloaf turns out dry, consider adding more tomato juice or a splash of broth to the mixture before baking. You can also top it with ketchup or barbecue sauce during the last 15 minutes of baking to keep it moist.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check if your meatloaf is done is by using a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F in the center. Alternatively, you can cut into the loaf to check that the juices run clear and the inside is no longer pink.
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).