Sweet N' Sour Meat Loaf
Sweet n' sour meat loaves combine savory ground beef with a tangy pineapple sauce, creating a flavorful dish perfect for family dinners and gatherings. The rich, sweet, and tangy flavors appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, chopped onion, salt, pepper, bread crumbs, and beaten egg; shape into 4 loaves.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. Pour off pan juices.
- While baking, stir cornstarch and brown sugar together.
- Add to tomato sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, and prepared mustard; cook, stirring, until thickened.
- Pour the sauce over the meat loaves and bake for an additional 40 minutes, basting often.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or minced garlic to the meat mixture. If you're out of soft bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oats can work as a substitute. You can also adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar based on your preference. If you prefer a spicy kick, try mixing in some chili sauce alongside the soy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This Sweet N' Sour Meat Loaf pairs well with fluffy mashed potatoes or a side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or rice. You can also complement it with a tangy coleslaw for added crunch. For more comforting combinations, consider browsing through other American recipes like Easy Macaroni Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Sweet N' Sour Meat Loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet N' Sour Meat Loaf contains roughly 1050 calories, with 25g protein, 173g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (51% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (48% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1528mg per serving (66% 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 meat loaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and shape the loaves a day in advance. Simply cover them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully. You can also freeze unbaked meat loaves; just thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of ground beef. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or a mix of finely chopped vegetables and beans. Just ensure that the moisture content is balanced to maintain the meat loaf's texture.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
To modify the sweetness, you can simply reduce the amount of brown sugar in the sauce or substitute it with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a tangier sauce, add a splash of vinegar or a bit of additional mustard to balance the sweetness.
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).