Zingy Meat Loaf

Prep: 15 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

A zesty meat loaf packed with vegetables and bold flavors, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a savory, tangy taste with a hint of horseradish.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lb. lean ground round
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 Tbsp. prepared horseradish
  • 1 tsp. dry mustard
  • 1/2 c. catsup
  • 1/2 c. minced celery
  • 1 Tbsp. minced parsley
  • 2 carrots, grated
  • 1 tsp. garlic salt
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. pepper
  • 1 medium size green pepper, chopped

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients lightly and shape into a loaf.
  2. Place the loaf in a rack in a baking pan.
  3. Bake in a moderate oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.

Tips & Substitutions

For a zesty twist, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of soy sauce to the mixture. If you don't have horseradish, a bit of hot sauce can provide a similar kick. For a healthier option, replace some of the ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative, perfect for those looking for vegetarian recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this zingy meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. A side salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast. For a fun twist, try serving it on a bun with mustard for a meatloaf sandwich, or pair it with Pumpkin Slices for a delicious dessert.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This meatloaf also freezes well; wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store for up to 3 months.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Zingy Meat Loaf contains roughly 128 calories, with 9g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (113% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1522mg per serving (66% of the Daily Value).

128 kcal 6% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8.8g 18% DV
Total Fat 3.1g 4% DV
Carbs 18.9g 7% DV
Fiber 5.7g 20% DV
Sugar 9.3g 19% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1521.9mg 66% DV
Potassium 620.8mg 13% DV
Cholesterol 23.7mg 8% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 116.9mcg 13% DV
Vitamin C 101.8mg 100% DV
Calcium 51.3mg 4% DV
Iron 1.8mg 10% DV
Diet fit Low-carb High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Egg

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 meatloaf?

Yes, you can substitute lean ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you're looking for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just be mindful that different meats may alter the cooking time slightly.

How can I prevent the meatloaf from being dry?

To keep the meatloaf moist, ensure not to overmix the ingredients and consider adding additional moisture, such as a splash of milk or a bit more catsup. Using lean meat is great, but adding some fat, like bacon or ground pork, can also help maintain juiciness.

What can I do if I don’t have horseradish?

If you don't have prepared horseradish, you can substitute it with a teaspoon of hot sauce or a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a similar flavor profile. Both options will add a nice kick to your meatloaf!

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).

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