Vegetable Meat Loaf
A hearty and comforting meat loaf featuring savory hamburger, vegetable beef soup, and creamy mashed potatoes, topped with crunchy bread crumbs. This dish offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, providing a balanced mix of meat, vegetables, and crispy topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the hamburger until browned, then drain excess fat.
- Place the cooked hamburger in the bottom of a small casserole dish and add the vegetable beef soup without adding water.
- Spread about 2 inches of mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meat mixture.
- Dot the mashed potatoes with buttered bread crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 30 to 40 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute. You can also add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix some sour cream or cream cheese into the mashed potatoes before spreading them on top. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
This Vegetable Meat Loaf pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You might also serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier option, consider serving it with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or a classic coleslaw to add crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but be careful not to overcook them.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vegetable Meat Loaf contains roughly 603 calories, with 30g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (59% of the Daily Value), iron (29% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1582mg per serving (69% 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 freeze the Vegetable Meat Loaf?
Yes, this dish freezes well! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight 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).