Tucson Meat Loaf
Tucson Meat Loaf combines savory ground beef and sausage with herbs, nuts, and a flavorful tomato sauce topping, making it a hearty, aromatic dish perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mold together ground beef, ground sausage, Lipton onion soup mix, bread crumbs, tomato sauce, egg, oregano, pepper, fennel seed, parsley, and walnuts until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a loaf pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating diced bell peppers or shredded cheese into the meat mixture. If you prefer a leaner option, substitute some of the ground beef with ground turkey. Ensure the loaf is well-formed to hold together during baking. You can also use a mixture of breadcrumbs for a different texture, such as panko. This recipe is reminiscent of classic American recipes and is sure to please a crowd.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tucson Meat Loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or green beans for a hearty meal. A fresh garden salad can also complement the dish well. For a twist, pair it with Rotel Rice Casserole for a comforting family dinner. Drizzle with additional tomato sauce or a tangy barbecue glaze for extra flavor before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can rewarm the meatloaf in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. This will help maintain the flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tucson Meat Loaf contains roughly 803 calories, with 30g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), iron (123% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 720mg per serving (31% 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 make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply shape it into a loaf and bake when you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it even tastier!
What can I use instead of ground sausage?
If you want to replace the ground sausage, consider using Italian turkey sausage for a leaner option or ground pork for a similar flavor profile. You could also use additional ground beef, seasoned with Italian herbs, to maintain the overall flavor without sausage.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the loaf. The outside should be browned, and the juices should run clear when cut into.
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).