Applesauce Meatloaf

🍎🥩🍞 Applesauce Meatloaf 🍎🥩🍞

What is it?
Applesauce meatloaf is a delicious and unique twist on the classic meatloaf recipe. It combines ground meat (usually beef or a mixture of beef and pork) with applesauce, creating a moist and flavorful dish that’s both savory and slightly sweet. The addition of applesauce not only enhances the taste but also adds moisture, making the meatloaf tender.

History:
The exact origin of applesauce meatloaf is unclear, but it likely developed as a variation of traditional meatloaf recipes. Applesauce has long been used in cooking to add flavor and moisture to various dishes, and it pairs surprisingly well with ground meat. Over time, this combination became a popular comfort food in many households.

Components:
The main components of applesauce meatloaf include:

• Ground meat (beef, pork, or a mixture)
• Applesauce
• Bread crumbs or oats (used as a binding agent)
• Eggs (to bind the ingredients together)
• Seasonings (such as salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs)
• Optional ingredients like diced onions, bell peppers, or garlic for added flavor

Steps to Prepare:
Here’s a basic recipe for making applesauce meatloaf:

1. Ingredients:

   • 1 1/2 pounds ground meat (beef, pork, or a mixture)
   • 1 cup applesauce
   • 1 cup bread crumbs or oats
   • 2 eggs
   • Salt and pepper to taste
   • Optional seasonings and vegetables for flavor

2. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

3. Mix Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, applesauce, bread crumbs or oats, eggs, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings or vegetables. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.

4. Shape the Meatloaf:
   Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a greased baking dish or on a baking sheet.

5. Bake:
   Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until it’s cooked through. You can check for doneness by using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

6. Rest and Serve:
   Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist. Serve slices of the meatloaf with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables.

Preparation Time:
The total time needed to prepare applesauce meatloaf is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, which includes preparation and baking time. It’s a relatively quick and straightforward dish to make, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a comforting meal any time of the year. Enjoy! 🍴😊

Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Applesauce Meatloaf:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving):

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Protein: 20-25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
• Sugars: 2-4 grams
• Total Fat: 15-20 grams
• Saturated Fat: 6-8 grams
• Cholesterol: 80-100 mg
• Sodium: 300-400 mg
• Potassium: 250-350 mg
• Vitamin A: 5-10% DV
• Vitamin C: 2-4% DV
• Calcium: 2-4% DV
• Iron: 10-15% DV

Health Information:

1. Protein: Applesauce meatloaf provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle health, immune function, and overall body repair.

2. Moderate Calories: The calorie content per serving is moderate, making it suitable for those looking to maintain a balanced calorie intake.

3. Carbohydrates: The dish contains a moderate amount of carbohydrates, which can provide energy. The carbohydrates come from ingredients like bread crumbs or oats.

4. Dietary Fiber: While not particularly high in fiber, this meatloaf may still contribute to your daily fiber intake, thanks to the inclusion of oats or bread crumbs.

5. Sugars: The sugars in the recipe primarily come from the natural sugars found in applesauce. They are relatively low, making this dish suitable for those watching their sugar intake.

6. Total Fat: Applesauce meatloaf contains a moderate amount of fat, which contributes to its flavor and texture. Be mindful of portion sizes if you are watching your fat intake.

7. Saturated Fat: Saturated fat content can vary depending on the type of ground meat used. Leaner cuts will have less saturated fat, while fattier cuts may have more.

8. Cholesterol: The dish contains cholesterol from the eggs and meat. While it’s not extremely high, individuals with specific dietary restrictions should be aware of their cholesterol intake.

9. Sodium: The sodium content can vary depending on the amount of salt added and other seasonings. Be mindful of sodium intake, especially if you have high blood pressure.

10. Vitamins and Minerals: Applesauce meatloaf contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron. However, it’s not a significant source of these nutrients.

Remember that the actual nutritional values can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe. It’s always a good idea to check food labels and adjust the recipe to meet your dietary preferences and requirements.