Meatloaf — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips

Meatloaf photo

Listonic Team

March 10, 2025

Meatloaf is a beloved comfort food that offers a hearty source of protein and essential nutrients, making it a satisfying choice for family meals. Explore tips for selecting quality meats, incorporating nutritious ingredients, and storing leftovers to maximize both flavor and health benefits.

Nutrients

Check the detailed nutritional values of meatloaf, including information such as calories, fats, carbohydrates, and proteins per 100 grams of the product.

Nutrition facts

Amount per 100 g

Calories

🔥 250 kcal

Nutrients per: 100 g% Daily Value*
Carbs10 g3.64%
Fiber1 g3.57%
Sugars1 g2%
Glycemic Index60 -
Protein14 g28%
Sodium650 mg28.26%
Total Fat15 19.23%

*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Key takeaways

🛒
Choose ground beef with a good balance of lean meat and fat, ideally around 80/20, for a moist and flavorful meatloaf. Look for fresh herbs and spices to enhance the taste and elevate your dish.
😋
Meatloaf, a comfort food staple, has roots tracing back to ancient Roman times, where a similar dish was made with ground meat and spices, showcasing how this hearty meal has evolved through centuries to become a beloved dish in American cuisine.
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To keep meatloaf fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.
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Meatloaf has been a popular dish in America since the Great Depression, as it was an economical way to stretch ground meat and feed a family.

Health benefits

Discover how meatloaf, packed with protein and essential nutrients, can contribute to a balanced diet while satisfying your comfort food cravings.
  • High in protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
  • Source of iron, which helps in the production of red blood cells and prevents anemia.
  • Contains B vitamins, particularly B12, which are important for energy production and brain health.
  • Offers healthy fats, which are necessary for hormone production and nutrient absorption.

Health risks

Explore the potential health risks associated with meatloaf.
  • High saturated fat content which can lead to increased cholesterol levels and a higher risk of heart disease.
  • Potential for foodborne illness due to undercooked meat, which can cause infections from bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli.
  • Excessive sodium levels from added seasonings and preservatives, contributing to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.
  • Risk of weight gain as meatloaf can be calorie-dense, especially with added ingredients like cheese or sauces, leading to obesity-related health problems.
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How to choose meatloaf

When choosing meat for your meatloaf, look for ground beef that has a good balance of lean meat and fat, ideally around 80/20. This ratio ensures a moist and flavorful loaf, as the fat contributes to the richness and tenderness of the final dish.

Avoid ground meats that appear overly dry or have an off-putting smell, as these can indicate poor quality or spoilage. Additionally, consider mixing different types of meat, such as pork or turkey, to enhance the flavor profile and texture of your meatloaf, creating a more complex and satisfying meal.

How to store meatloaf

To ensure your meatloaf stays fresh and flavorful, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help prevent moisture loss and keep out any unwanted odors from other foods. Ideally, meatloaf should be consumed within 3-4 days of cooking, so be sure to label the container with the date it was made.

If you want to keep your meatloaf for a longer period, freezing is a great option. Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. This will help maintain its texture and flavor. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

✅ Extra Tip

For extra flavor and moisture, consider adding a layer of sautéed onions and garlic to your meatloaf mixture, and always store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to four days.

How long does it last?

Meatloaf can last for a reasonable amount of time when stored correctly. Cooked meatloaf can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days if placed in an airtight container. If you want to extend its shelf life, freezing is a great option; properly wrapped meatloaf can last for 2-3 months in the freezer without significant loss of quality. To maintain its flavor and texture, it's best to slice the meatloaf before freezing and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, followed by placing it in a freezer-safe container. Always remember to check for any signs of spoilage before consuming leftovers.

What to do with leftovers?

Leftover meatloaf can be transformed into a variety of delicious meals. Slice it up and use it as a filling for a hearty sandwich, adding your favorite condiments and toppings for extra flavor. You can also crumble the meatloaf and incorporate it into a hearty pasta sauce or a savory casserole, providing a rich base for a comforting dish. For a quick meal, reheat slices in a skillet and serve them alongside mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a classic dinner. If you're feeling adventurous, try making meatloaf tacos by wrapping the crumbled leftovers in tortillas with fresh toppings like avocado and salsa. Additionally, meatloaf can be frozen for later use; just make sure to wrap it tightly to preserve its flavor and texture.

👨‍⚕️️ Medical disclaimer

The content on this website is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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