Sweet And Sour Meat Loaf For Six
A flavorful sweet and sour meatloaf blending tangy tomato sauce, vinegar, and brown sugar, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings with hearty, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crush the saltine crackers inside a plastic bag to prevent mess.
- In a 9-inch pie plate, mix ground beef, minced onion, crushed crackers, salt, pepper, egg or egg whites, and 1/2 cup of tomato sauce.
- Form the mixture into a round loaf shape.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding finely chopped bell peppers or garlic to the meat mixture. If you're out of saltine crackers, crushed breadcrumbs can work well as a substitute. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free crackers. Be sure to mix the ingredients just until combined to keep the meatloaf tender. A dash of Worcestershire sauce can also add depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. You can drizzle the remaining tomato sauce over the top for added flavor. It also pairs beautifully with Corn And Rice Bake for a heartier dinner. For a fresh element, consider a simple salad on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Sour Meat Loaf For Six contains roughly 2150 calories, with 48g protein, 270g carbohydrates, and 97g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (105% of the Daily Value), protein (96% of the Daily Value), and calcium (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1954mg per serving (85% 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 meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely and makes dinner prep easier on busy nights.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can substitute with crushed tomatoes or a homemade mixture of tomato paste thinned with water and a bit of sugar. Alternatively, barbecue sauce can also work as a flavorful replacement, adding a different twist to the dish.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done cooking?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and juices should run clear when pierced. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing for the best texture.
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).