Maple Sage Meatloaf Recipe
A comforting twist on the classic meatloaf, this Maple Sage Meatloaf is adapted from the beloved Better Homes and Gardens plaid cookbook. Designed to be both hearty and light, this recipe ditches typical fillers like bread or cracker crumbs, instead using simple ingredients to pack in flavor and keep the meatloaf juicy. Adding grated carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini is a great way to lighten the loaf and boost nutrition. Best of all, leftovers make incredible sandwiches that can be dressed up with a range of toppings—try mayonnaise, ketchup, and hot sauce for a zesty finish.
📋 Ingredients and Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Info (Approximate per Serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Sour Cream | 1 1/2 cups | 363.3 Calories, 25.9g Fat, 11.3g Saturated Fat, 124.2mg Cholesterol, 631.2mg Sodium, 10.2g Carbohydrates, 0.4g Fiber, 8.6g Sugars, 21.8g Protein |
| Egg | 3/4 cup | |
| Onion | 1 medium | |
| Dried Parsley | 1/2 cup | |
| Salt | 2 tsp | |
| Ground Sage | 1 tsp | |
| Ketchup | 1/2 cup | |
| Maple Syrup | 1/4 cup | |
| Prepared Mustard | 2 tsp | |
| Barbecue Sauce | 1 cup |
Serves: 6
⏲️ Cooking Times
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 30 minutes |
🥄 Instructions
-
Prepare the Onion
Begin by chopping the onion finely. To soften and bring out its sweetness, microwave the onion pieces on high for about 1-2 minutes. This step is optional but enhances the flavor and texture of the meatloaf. -
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, egg, chopped onion, dried parsley, salt, and ground sage. Using your hands, mix the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring they are well-combined. This mixture should be cohesive yet still moist. -
Shape the Loaf
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or casserole. Shape it into a freeform loaf, pressing it gently to maintain an even shape. The loaf should have a slightly rounded top for even cooking and a classic meatloaf appearance. -
Create the Maple Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, maple syrup, prepared mustard, and barbecue sauce until smooth. This glaze will add a sweet and tangy layer to the meatloaf that complements the sage and adds moisture to the exterior. -
Apply the Glaze
Spoon the maple glaze over the top of the meatloaf, allowing some to drizzle down the sides. This will create a sticky, caramelized coating as the loaf bakes. -
Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes. About halfway through baking, carefully drain any accumulated fat from the dish to keep the loaf from becoming too greasy. Repeat this step at the end of the cooking time if necessary. -
Serve and Enjoy
Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven. Slice into portions and serve warm. Enjoy the savory maple-sage flavor with a side of mashed potatoes or your favorite vegetables.
Tip: Leftover slices make fantastic sandwiches for the next day! Simply layer with your choice of condiments and enjoy.
