Virginia Homestyle Meat Loaf
A hearty Virginia-style meat loaf with a moist texture and tangy ketchup glaze, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the bread slices in milk.
- Mix the hamburger, eggs, chopped onion, applesauce, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Add the bread and milk mixture to the meat mixture and combine well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in a loaf pan.
- Mix 1/2 cup catsup with four tablespoons of sugar and spread on top of the meat loaf.
- Bake at 350°F for about one and a half hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some Worcestershire sauce or herbs like thyme and parsley into the meat mixture. If you don't have applesauce, mashed bananas can work as a substitute. You can also replace the bread with breadcrumbs for a different texture. Be mindful of the moisture content when using substitutions to ensure the meat loaf holds together well.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the meat loaf and serve with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh garden salad. A drizzle of extra catsup on top adds a nice touch. This hearty dish pairs beautifully with 'Hippi' Cornbread for a comforting meal. For a twist, consider serving it in a sandwich with your favorite toppings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meat loaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Virginia Homestyle Meat Loaf contains roughly 767 calories, with 10g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (25% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1947mg 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 use ground turkey instead of hamburger?
Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative to hamburger and can be used in this recipe. Just be aware that it might require a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor, as turkey is milder than beef.
How can I make this meat loaf gluten-free?
To make the meat loaf gluten-free, substitute the bread with gluten-free bread or use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure that your catsup is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten as a thickener.
What can I serve with meat loaf for a complete meal?
Meat loaf is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. For a heartier option, you might enjoy it alongside the 'Pizza-Potato Hot Dish' for a comforting combination.
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).