Tasty Meat Loaf
A classic comfort food, this meat loaf features juicy lean hamburger combined with savory onion flavor and a tangy ketchup glaze. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers a satisfying, hearty meal that can be easily customized with your favorite seasonings and sides.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean hamburger, Lipton onion soup mix, bread crumbs, tomato ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until cooked through and browned on top.
- Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider mixing in a beaten egg or some diced vegetables like bell peppers or onions. If you don't have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oats can work as substitutes. To enhance flavor, try adding herbs like thyme or garlic powder. For a twist, glaze the meatloaf with additional ketchup or a barbecue sauce before baking, similar to the glaze used in the One Pot Pork Chop Supper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans for a comforting meal. It also pairs wonderfully with a fresh Crunchy Broccoli Salad for a lighter touch. For a fun twist, consider serving it in a sandwich with your favorite toppings. Leftover meatloaf makes great sandwiches for lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat until warmed through, or reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tasty Meat Loaf contains roughly 328 calories, with 13g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1007mg per serving (44% 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 freeze meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze cooked meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I use instead of Lipton onion soup mix?
If you don't have Lipton onion soup mix, you can create a similar flavor by mixing dried onion flakes, garlic powder, and beef bouillon granules. Adjust the amounts to taste, aiming for a savory, onion-rich flavor.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the top should be browned and the juices should run clear when cut into.
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).