Sweet And Saucy Meat Loaf
Sweet and saucy meat loaf combines savory ground beef with a hint of sweetness from ketchup, making it a comforting, family-friendly dish perfect for casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine ground beef, egg, milk, chopped onion, oatmeal, ketchup, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and shape into a loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until cooked through.
- Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meatloaf, consider adding grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots. You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter option. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, mix extra ketchup with brown sugar for the topping. Ensure to season well with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. For a twist, try incorporating spices from American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with Baked Cauliflower Meat Loaf as a lighter option. For an added touch, drizzle with extra ketchup or a tangy sauce before serving, and consider offering a fresh salad on the side for balance.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a baking dish, covering it with foil to retain moisture. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Saucy Meat Loaf contains roughly 771 calories, with 18g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (60% of the Daily Value), protein (37% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1278mg per serving (56% 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 meatloaf?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative. Just be mindful that turkey may require additional seasoning due to its milder flavor. Adjust cooking time as needed, as lean meats can cook faster than beef.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can also check for doneness by cutting into the center; it should no longer be pink, and the juices should run clear.
Can I freeze meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meatloaf mixture or the cooked loaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or store in an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed.
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).