Meat Loaf

8 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 1 h 15 m Total: 1 h 30 m Beginner
5.0/5 (2)
Meat Loaf
Here is a dish for your “meat and potato” kids. You can’t go wrong with meatloaf made with ground beef, onion, and a tangy tomato sauce topping. It goes great with mashed potatoes and gravy.

Ingredients

8 servings
  • 1 1/2 lbs ground meat
  • 1 cup fresh bread crumbs
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 2 (8 oz) cans tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 3 tbsp vinegar
  • 3 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp mustard
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • salt to taste
  • 1/4 tsp pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, beaten egg, salt, pepper, and 1/2 can of the tomato sauce. Form into a loaf and put into an oiled 7x10 inch loaf pan.
  3. For the sauce topping, combine all the remaining ingredients, using the remainder of the tomato sauce, and pour over the meat loaf.
  4. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour, 15 minutes, basting occasionally with the sauce.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my meatloaf dry?

A: Don't skip the tomato sauce mixed into the meat - it adds moisture. Also, avoid over-mixing the meat mixture and don't overbake past 1 hour 15 minutes.

Q: Can I make this ahead?

A: Yes! You can form the loaf and refrigerate it (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the sauce topping just before baking.

Tips and Techniques

Basting the meatloaf occasionally with the sauce keeps it moist and builds up a flavorful glaze on top. Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes after baking before slicing for cleaner cuts.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • ground meat: ground beef, ground turkey, or a mix of beef and pork
  • fresh bread crumbs: dried breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
  • brown sugar: white sugar or honey

Equipment Needed

  • 7x10 inch loaf pan
  • mixing bowl
  • measuring cups and spoons