Theresa'S Meat Loaf
Theresa's Meat Loaf is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring ground beef combined with savory sauces and seasonings, ideal for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Mix thoroughly until eggs are well incorporated into the mixture.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Form the mixture into a large round ball and place it in a pot or baking dish.
- Add a little water to the bottom of the pot, less than 1/4 cup, just enough to coat the bottom.
- Cover and place in the oven.
- Cook for 1 1/2 hours.
- Remove from oven and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a juicier meatloaf, consider adding grated carrots or finely chopped mushrooms to the mixture. If you don't have Italian dressing, a mix of olive oil, vinegar, and Italian herbs can work as a substitute. Adjust the spices to your taste; adding garlic powder or parsley can enhance the flavor. If you prefer a tangy topping, try mixing barbecue sauce with ketchup before spreading it on top.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Theresa's Meat Loaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes or green beans for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Barbecue Beans With Beef for a hearty platter. For a fresh touch, add a side salad dressed with Italian dressing. Consider making a meatloaf sandwich with the leftovers, adding lettuce and tomato for a delicious lunch option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of broth or water, cover, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Theresa'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 1001 calories, with 18g protein, 194g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (41% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1856mg per serving (81% 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 use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef in this recipe. Keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so you may want to add a bit of olive oil or an extra egg to maintain moisture and flavor. The cooking time may also be slightly less, so check for doneness early.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done cooking?
To check if the meatloaf is done, insert a meat thermometer into the center; it should read at least 160°F (70°C). Alternatively, you can cut into the meatloaf to ensure there is no pink meat and the juices run clear. Resting the meatloaf for about 10 minutes after cooking can also help with slicing.
Can I freeze the meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze meatloaf either baked or unbaked. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven, or bake from frozen, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
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).