Sweet-Sour Meat Loaf
A savory meat loaf with sweet and sour flavors from currant jelly and chili sauce, ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a delightful twist on classic comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ingredients in a saucepan to prepare the sauce.
- Heat until the jelly and chili sauce are melted and well blended.
- Preheat oven to 400° F.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground chuck, bread crumbs, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and egg.
- Mix thoroughly and mold into a 5 x 9-inch loaf in a loaf pan.
- Pour about half of the prepared sauce over the meat loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven until cooked through, approximately 45 minutes.
- Reserve the remaining sauce for serving or another use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on this Sweet-Sour Meat Loaf, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also substitute the currant jelly with grape jelly or apricot preserves if needed. Adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and texture. Ensure not to overmix the meatloaf mixture to keep it tender.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sweet-Sour Meat Loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Quick Fruit Salad Or Dessert for a refreshing finish. For a complete dinner, consider offering a green salad or some crusty bread alongside to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the meatloaf to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet-Sour Meat Loaf contains roughly 395 calories, with 17g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (94% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1461mg per serving (64% 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 ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just ensure you cover the mixture tightly to prevent it from drying out.
What can I use instead of bread crumbs?
If you don't have bread crumbs on hand, you can substitute crushed crackers, oatmeal, or even cooked rice. Each option will slightly alter the texture but should still hold the meatloaf together effectively.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done cooking?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check. Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and no longer pink in the center.
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).