Traditional Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf infused with basil and garlic, topped with ketchup, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking classic flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a one-quart casserole dish, combine beef flavor instant bouillon, hot water, dried basil leaves, garlic powder, pepper, and ground beef; cover with lid or foil.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cracker or bread crumbs, chopped onion, slightly beaten egg, and ketchup.
- Add the mixture to the ground beef mixture and mix until well blended.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 to 60 minutes or until the meat is thoroughly cooked.
- Remove from oven, let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider incorporating grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots into the meat mixture. If you don't have beef bouillon, chicken bouillon works as a substitute. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add more hot pepper sauce or mix in some diced jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this traditional meat loaf with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with a simple salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside Chunky Vegetable-Beef Soup for a satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Traditional Meat Loaf contains roughly 346 calories, with 12g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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
Why is my meatloaf falling apart?
If your meatloaf is crumbling, it may be due to insufficient binding agents. Make sure to use enough breadcrumbs or eggs to hold the mixture together. Also, be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense texture.
Can I freeze meatloaf?
Yes, meatloaf freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. Adjust seasonings accordingly, as these proteins may have different flavor profiles.
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).