Uncle Sonny'S Meat Loaf
Uncle Sonny's Meat Loaf is a hearty, flavorful dish combining ground meat with cheese, vegetables, and a sweet-savory ketchup glaze. Its rich taste and comforting texture make it perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, offering a nostalgic, satisfying meal with a hint of sweetness and spice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, grated cheese, chopped bell peppers, chopped onions, soaked bread crumbs (soaked in milk), crushed crackers, salt, and pepper.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix catsup, mustard, and brown sugar to make the glaze.
- Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meat loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, until cooked through and browned on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on Uncle Sonny's Meat Loaf, consider using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also replace the grated cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a vegetarian version. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. Always allow the meat loaf to rest for a few minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Uncle Sonny's Meat Loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or creamy coleslaw for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Corn Meal Rolls, making it a hearty dinner option. For a lighter touch, consider a fresh Lime Salad to balance the richness of the meat loaf. Don't forget to drizzle extra glaze on top before serving for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meat loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a baking dish and cover with foil, heating in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but be cautious not to dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Uncle Sonny'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 1210 calories, with 26g protein, 216g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (214% of the Daily Value), iron (55% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 meat loaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat loaf mixture a day in advance. Simply cover it and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of bread crumbs?
If you don't have dried bread crumbs on hand, crushed crackers or oats can be used as a substitute. Both will help bind the meat loaf while adding a unique texture. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs or almond flour.
How can I tell when the meat loaf is done?
The best way to check if the meat loaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F in the center. Alternatively, cut into the loaf; the juices should run clear, and there should be no pink in the center.
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).