Tri-Hi Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf layered with cottage cheese and mushrooms, offering rich flavors and moist texture, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine 1/2 cup cracker crumbs with ground beef, tomato paste, beaten eggs, chopped onion, green pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Pat half of the meat mixture into the bottom of a square pan.
- Combine remaining 1/2 cup cracker crumbs with cottage cheese, mushroom pieces, and dried parsley.
- Spread this cottage cheese mixture over the meat layer in the dish.
- Top with the remaining meat mixture.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 1 hour.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated cheese or spices like garlic powder or onion powder into the meat mixture. If you don't have cracker crumbs, crushed breadcrumbs or even rolled oats can work as a substitute. Ensure the meatloaf is well-formed to prevent it from breaking apart during baking. For an extra kick, serve with a side of Spicy New England Corned Beef.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A fresh green salad can also complement the richness of the dish. Consider pairing it with a hearty bread or rolls to soak up any juices. This dish pairs beautifully with Peppy Stuffed Peppers for a delightful dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tri-Hi Meat Loaf contains roughly 437 calories, with 19g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (72% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and potassium (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 631mg per serving (27% 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, turkey tends to be drier, so consider adding a bit more moisture, such as an extra egg or a splash of broth, to keep it tender. Adjust seasonings as needed for flavor.
How can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
To make this meatloaf gluten-free, replace the cracker crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that other ingredients, like the tomato paste and cottage cheese, are also certified gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious version without gluten.
Can I freeze the meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months. If already baked, slice it and store in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).