Vivian Green'S Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf with a flavorful tomato sauce topping, combining tender beef, vegetables, and seasonings, perfect for family dinners and comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a bowl.
- Retain 1/3 of the can of tomato sauce for topping.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in a metal pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 1 hour.
- After baking, drain the grease from the meat loaf.
- Spread the reserved tomato sauce over the top of the loaf.
- Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the sauce is heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce. If you're out of ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute. To enhance the texture, add grated carrots or zucchini to the mix. Ensure not to overmix to keep the loaf tender. This recipe also works well with fine breadcrumbs instead of crackers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with mashed potatoes or a side of roasted vegetables for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Mishelle'S Chili for a comforting dinner. For a lighter option, consider a fresh salad on the side. Leftover meatloaf can be transformed into sandwiches for lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in one-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vivian Green'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 588 calories, with 23g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (171% of the Daily Value), iron (79% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1534mg per serving (67% 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 meatloaf before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf before baking. Simply shape it into a loaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then in aluminum foil. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. This method helps preserve flavor and texture.
What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). Both options will help bind the ingredients together while keeping the meatloaf moist.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
To ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 160°F (70°C). If you don't have a thermometer, cut into the center; it should be no longer pink, and juices should run clear.
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).