Meatloaf
AI-generated illustration
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food made from ground meat—typically beef, pork, or a blend—mixed with binders like breadcrumbs or oats, eggs, and seasonings, then shaped into a loaf and baked. It often features a tangy glaze made from ketchup, brown sugar, or mustard. While popular across many cultures, it is particularly iconic in American home cooking, especially in the Midwest and Northeast.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
A standard serving (about 4 ounces) is high in protein and fat, with moderate carbohydrates from binders and glaze. It provides iron, zinc, and B vitamins, and typically ranges from 250 to 350 calories per serving, depending on the meat's fat content and added ingredients.
💡 What's interesting
Meatloaf is a quintessential 'stretch' dish, historically used to make cheaper cuts of meat feed a family, and it has become a symbol of nostalgic, hearty home cooking. Nutritionally, it's a dense source of complete protein, but its fat content varies widely based on recipe choices.