The Best Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf combining beef and pork, flavored with herbs, parsley, and garlic, topped with bacon for a savory, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend all ingredients and shape on a rack on a cookie sheet.
- Place bacon on top and secure with toothpicks.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes.
- Reduce oven temperature to 300°F and bake for 1 1/2 hours.
- Baste with tomato or barbecue sauce before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider mixing in a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or using a combination of ground turkey and beef. If you prefer a milder flavor, substitute the garlic with garlic powder. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free bread crumbs. Additionally, finely chopped mushrooms can enhance the texture and flavor, reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with Harlequin Beans for a colorful side dish. For a twist, consider slicing it and making a meatloaf sandwich with your favorite condiments. A fresh salad can balance the richness of the dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a baking dish with a splash of tomato sauce or broth, covering with foil to keep it moist. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of The Best Meat Loaf contains roughly 1173 calories, with 60g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (120% of the Daily Value), iron (111% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1432mg per serving (62% 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, meatloaf freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it in the oven or microwave.
What can I use instead of bread crumbs?
If you don't have bread crumbs on hand, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice as a substitute. Just make sure to adjust the liquid in the recipe slightly to accommodate any dry substitutes, ensuring the meatloaf remains moist.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check if your meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F in the center. Alternatively, you can cut into the meatloaf; it should be firm and no longer pink in the center. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing for better 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).