Ultimate Meat Loaf
A hearty, flavorful meat loaf topped with bacon and catsup, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering savory flavors and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together ground round, crushed saltines, chopped onions, chopped green peppers, garlic, salt, pepper, Lipton onion soup mix, eggs, and catsup.
- Place the mixture in a large casserole dish.
- Spread additional catsup thickly on top of the meatloaf.
- Arrange uncooked bacon slices on top of the catsup layer.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 1 hour until cooked through and bacon is crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting ground beef with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option. You can also mix in some grated cheese for richness or use crushed crackers instead of saltines. If you want a bit of heat, adding diced jalapeños can elevate the flavor. Don't skip the bacon; it adds a wonderful smoky taste to the meatloaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed Broccoli And Cauliflower Mix for a comforting meal. A fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables also pair nicely. For a heartier option, consider serving with a slice of bread and butter. This dish pairs beautifully with Honey Ham Loaf for a delicious dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ultimate Meat Loaf contains roughly 673 calories, with 35g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (109% of the Daily Value), protein (70% of the Daily Value), and iron (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1959mg per serving (85% 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 meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just remember to add the bacon on top just before baking to ensure it stays crispy.
What can I use instead of Lipton onion soup mix?
If you don't have Lipton onion soup mix, you can create a homemade version by mixing dried onion flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, and some salt. This will provide a similar flavor to the dish without using a pre-packaged mix.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when its internal temperature reaches 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check. The bacon should also be crispy, which indicates that the meatloaf has cooked thoroughly. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
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).