If you're looking for a satisfying meal, look no further than the classic meat loaf. A 340 g serving offers around 300 calories, making it a great dinner option. This dish is not only delicious, but it's also nutritious.
The protein-rich meat loaf contains essential amino acids that help improve muscle health. It also contains B vitamins that help regulate metabolism and convert food into energy. Additionally, a serving of meat loaf provides a good amount of iron, zinc, and selenium that are vital for healthy functioning of various organs in the body.
In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies to help you create a delicious, nutritious meat loaf that's perfect for any occasion.
Calories per serving
As mentioned earlier, a 340 g serving of classic meat loaf contains around 300 calories. This makes it a great meal option, particularly for people looking to control their calorie intake.
Protein content
Meat loaf is a protein-rich dish, with a 340 g serving providing around 32 g of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, making it an important nutrient for overall health and wellbeing.
Fat content
Meat loaf can be high in fat, depending on the type of meat and preparation method used. However, by using lean meats and reducing the amount of added fats, you can create a healthier version of the dish. A typical 340 g serving of meat loaf contains around 18 g of fat, with 6 g coming from saturated fats. It's important to limit your intake of saturated fats to maintain optimal health.
Carbohydrate content
Meat loaf typically contains breadcrumbs, which provide the necessary carbohydrate content to hold the dish together. A 340 g serving of meat loaf contains around 17 g of carbs, making it a good option for people following a low-carb diet.
Fiber content
Meat loaf is not generally a good source of fiber. However, by adding ingredients like chopped vegetables or whole grain breadcrumbs, you can increase the fiber content of the dish and make it more nutritious.
Sodium content
Meat loaf can be high in sodium, particularly if using store-bought seasoning mixes or canned tomato sauce. To reduce sodium levels, opt for low-sodium seasonings and homemade tomato sauce. A typical 340 g serving of meat loaf contains around 920 mg of sodium. It's recommended to limit your intake of sodium to 2,300 mg per day or less.
Vitamin content
Meat loaf is a good source of various vitamins, including B vitamins that help convert food into energy and maintain healthy brain function. A serving of meat loaf contains around 1.4 mg of vitamin B6, 0.4 mcg of vitamin B12, and 2.2 mg of niacin.
Micronutrient content
Meat loaf contains various essential minerals, including iron that helps transport oxygen throughout the body and zinc that helps boost immunity. A 340 g serving of meat loaf provides around 2.8 mg of iron and 4.5 mg of zinc.
Gluten-free option
Meat loaf traditionally contains breadcrumbs, which can make it unsuitable for people on a gluten-free diet. However, there are various gluten-free bread alternatives available, such as almond flour or cornmeal, that can be used instead.
Healthy cooking tips
To create a healthier version of meat loaf, you can make the following changes: use lean meats like ground turkey or chicken, add chopped vegetables for an extra nutrient boost, reduce the amount of added fat and sodium, and opt for whole grain breadcrumbs or gluten-free alternatives.
Meat loaf is a delicious and nutritious dish that can be customized to suit your dietary preferences and needs.
5 FAQ About Classic Meat Loaf
1. What is Classic Meat Loaf?
Classic Meat Loaf is a traditional American dish that consists of ground meat, usually beef, mixed with breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices. It is typically baked in a loaf pan and served with various sides such as mashed potatoes and vegetables.
2. What are the calories in a serving of Classic Meat Loaf?
A serving of Classic Meat Loaf, which is 340 g, contains approximately 300 calories. However, this may vary depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used.
3. Is Classic Meat Loaf a healthy meal option?
Classic Meat Loaf can be a healthy meal option if made with lean ground meat and whole grain breadcrumbs. It can also be packed with vegetables such as carrots and onions for added nutrition. However, if made with high-fat meats and served with rich sides, it can be high in calories and fat.
4. How long can Classic Meat Loaf be stored in the refrigerator?
Classic Meat Loaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days if kept in an airtight container. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
5. What are some variations of Classic Meat Loaf?
There are many variations of Classic Meat Loaf, such as using different types of ground meat such as turkey or pork, adding different seasonings such as cumin or chili powder, and stuffing it with cheese or vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms.