Wonderful Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf with a tender, flavorful filling complemented by a sweet and tangy glaze. The combination of ground beef, bread soaked in milk, and aromatic spices makes it a comforting classic perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the bread slices in milk until soft.
- Add ground beef, eggs, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and cream of celery soup to the soaked bread and mix thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan.
- Combine brown sugar, catsup, nutmeg, and mustard to make the glaze.
- Spread the glaze over the top of the meat loaf.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour until cooked through and glazed.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic or Worcestershire sauce into the meat mixture. If you don't have cream of celery soup, cream of mushroom or a homemade white sauce can work as a substitute. To prevent the meat loaf from drying out, avoid overmixing and ensure it's cooked just until no longer pink in the center.
Serving Suggestions
This meat loaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a comforting meal. Consider serving it with a side of baked beans or a fresh garden salad for a balanced plate. Leftovers make great sandwiches, so pack a slice with your favorite toppings for a delicious lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meat loaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meat loaf and place it in a baking dish, covering it with foil. Bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wonderful Meat Loaf contains roughly 821 calories, with 11g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (90% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 632mg per serving (27% 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 a different type of meat for this meat loaf?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary, so ensure it's cooked through to a safe internal temperature. Additionally, adding some moisture, such as grated zucchini or extra sauce, can help keep it from drying out.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free meat loaf, use gluten-free bread for soaking and ensure your cream of celery soup is also gluten-free. You can also bind the mixture with gluten-free oats or breadcrumbs. Adjust the seasoning to taste, as some gluten-free products can have different flavor profiles.
What can I do if my glaze is too thick?
If your glaze is too thick, simply add a little water or additional catsup to reach your desired consistency. Stir well to combine before spreading it on the meat loaf. A thinner glaze can help it spread evenly and caramelize beautifully during baking.
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).