Tomato Meat Loaf
A hearty tomato-based meat loaf featuring ground beef, hearty cereals, and a tangy catsup topping, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except 3 tablespoons of catsup.
- Pack the mixture into a greased 7 1/2 x 3 1/2 x 2 1/2-inch loaf pan.
- Spread the remaining catsup on top of the loaf.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 1 1/4 hours.
- Optional: make gravy from pan juices if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist meatloaf, ensure not to overmix the meat mixture; just combine until ingredients are incorporated. If whole wheat cereal flakes aren't available, substitute with crushed crackers. You can add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Experimenting with different herbs like thyme or oregano can elevate the taste, making it a delightful twist on classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf sliced and drizzled with pan juices or homemade gravy for extra richness. Pair with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. This dish also goes well with a side salad or roasted vegetables. For a twist, you could serve it with Imitation Rice-A-Roni for a hearty, balanced dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a baking dish with a splash of broth or water, covering it with foil to retain moisture. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Meat Loaf contains roughly 398 calories, with 7g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 812mg per serving (35% 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 ground beef in this recipe. However, be aware that turkey is leaner, so you may want to add a bit more moisture, like an extra egg or some olive oil, to prevent the meatloaf from drying out.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. If you don't have one, the meatloaf should feel firm to the touch and no longer be pink in the center.
Can I freeze meatloaf for later?
Absolutely! You can freeze the meatloaf either before or after baking. For best results, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.
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).