Ingredients
- 4 pounds lean ground beef
- 3 cups Italian bread crumbs
- 4 eggs
- 1 large onion, chopped
- ¼ cup spaghetti sauce
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 pinch garlic salt, or to taste
- Topping:
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 3 drops orange food coloring, or as needed (Optional)
Why This Meal Is A Winner
Cooking Tips You Should Know
- Don’t skip soaking the breadcrumbs in milk; it keeps the meatloaf moist.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to help it hold its shape.
Step 1
Lightly heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a big bowl, mix together the ground beef, bread crumbs, eggs, chopped onion, spaghetti sauce, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of garlic salt. Once everything is well combined, press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the bowl and smooth out the top.
Step 2
Carefully flip the bowl over onto a large cake pan with sides to catch any drippings. Use your fingers to shape a little stem at the top, then carve out a fun or spooky face right into the meatloaf.
Step 3
In a small bowl, mix some spaghetti sauce with a few drops of orange food coloring. Use this to paint the entire surface of the meatloaf, giving it a bright pumpkin color. Sprinkle some Italian seasoning over the stem for a finishing touch.
Step 4
Pop the meatloaf into the oven and bake for about 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until it’s cooked through and no longer pink in the middle. When it’s done, carefully drain off any grease from the pan or transfer the meatloaf to a serving plate. Let it rest a bit, then slice and enjoy!
