Easy Meat Loaf Recipe
This home-cooked meat loaf is perfect for family dinners and uses simple ingredients to serve six to eight people.
Texas Meat Loaf
Ingredients
- 2 lb chopped chuck (ground beef)
- 1 cup tomato juice
- 1 very large onion, chopped
- 2–3 slices lean bacon, chopped
- Italian bread crumbs (for topping)
- 3 slices whole wheat bread
- Black pepper, to taste
Preheat oven: 350°F
Instructions
- Run cold water over the bread slices, then squeeze out excess water.
- In a large bowl, combine soaked bread with ground beef and chopped onion.
- Pour tomato juice over the mixture and mix thoroughly. Season with black pepper.
- Form into a round loaf and place in a large, deep pan (an iron skillet works well).
- Sprinkle bread crumbs over the top and scatter chopped bacon over the loaf.
- Add about 1/2 inch of water to the pan. Cover and bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Uncover and bake 30 minutes more to brown.
- Transfer meat loaf to a platter. Make gravy from pan drippings (Gravy Master can be used for a darker gravy).
Serves 6–8. Note: The recipe says no salt is needed because bacon drippings season the meat.
FAQ
Why soak bread in water for meat loaf?
Soaked bread helps bind the loaf and keeps it moist—especially with leaner ground beef.
Do I really need to add water to the pan?
The water helps prevent sticking and keeps the meat loaf moist while it bakes covered.
Can I bake this in a loaf pan instead of a skillet?
Yes. A deep skillet is traditional here, but a loaf pan works fine—drain excess fat if needed.
How do I know when meat loaf is done?
It should be hot throughout and slice cleanly. If you use a thermometer, aim for 160°F in the center.