Triple Crown Meat Loaf
A savory meat loaf baked in custard cups with crispy onion topping and melted cheese, offering rich flavors perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine 1/3 cup crushed onion rings and brown sugar.
- Put 1 tablespoon of the mixture in each of 8 small, well-greased ovenproof custard cups.
- Top with 1/2 teaspoon mustard.
- Melt butter in a small saucepan.
- Remove from heat and stir in flour to form a smooth paste.
- Add catsup; stir to blend.
- Combine ground beef, egg, catsup mixture, and remaining crushed onions.
- Mix thoroughly.
- Press 1/3 cup of the meat mixture into each custard cup.
- Place 1/2 slice of American cheese on top of the meat.
- Add more meat on top of the cheese and seal the edges.
- Place custard cups on a cookie sheet.
- Bake, uncovered, at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes, until done.
- Drain any accumulated grease.
- Run a knife around the edge of each custard cup and invert onto a platter.
- Scrape the bottom of the custard cup to get the glaze out.
- Spread the glaze on the meat loaf.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the meat mixture. If you don't have American cheese, cheddar or mozzarella can be great substitutes. For a healthier twist, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You could also add finely diced vegetables for added moisture and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meat loaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad. For a twist, you might consider serving it with a tangy barbecue sauce or explore similar flavors found in 'Best Yet' Chili, another delightful dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover triple crown meat loaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. For a crispier texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Triple Crown Meat Loaf contains roughly 514 calories, with 16g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value) and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g 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
Can I make this meat loaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and fill the custard cups a day in advance. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing them in the oven.
What can I use instead of custard cups?
If you don't have custard cups, you can use a muffin tin or a loaf pan. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, as larger portions may require a bit more time to cook through.
Can I freeze the meat loaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meat loaf in the custard cups. Wrap them well in plastic wrap and then in foil. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding extra time as necessary. Cooked meat loaf can also be frozen for up to three months.
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).