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–+ servings
Russian Meatloaf
Russian Meat Loaf is a hearty, savory dish that combines tender ground meat with bread crumbs, eggs, onion, and pepper, then tops it with smoky bacon and rich canned tomatoes. The style of preparation, popular in the early 20th century, mirrors European meatloaf variations that incorporated bacon for added flavor and moisture. This recipe’s simplicity makes it a comforting dinner centerpiece, with the tomatoes lending both tanginess and a touch of sweetness. Perfect for a vintage-inspired meal, it captures the charm of home-cooked dinners from the 1940s.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine eastern european
Servings 6
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 15 oz corn (1 can, drained)
  • 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or mixed ground meats)
  • 1 onion (medium, chopped)
  • 1 green pepper (medium, chopped)
  • 2 eggs (large )
  • 1 cup bread crumbs
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 6 bacon strips
  • 14-15 oz diced tomatoes (1 can, undrained)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

  • Drain the corn.
  • Chop onion and green pepper.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Mix Meat Mixture

  • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, green pepper, corn, eggs, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper.
  • Mix until evenly combined.

Step 3: Shape the Loaf

  • Transfer meat mixture into a loaf pan or shape into a loaf on a baking sheet.

Step 4: Add Bacon and Tomatoes

  • Lay bacon strips over the top and sides of the loaf.
  • Pour canned tomatoes over the top.

Step 5: Bake

  • Place in preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 6: Serve

  • Allow to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
  • Serve hot with potatoes or vegetables.

Tips

  • Use lean ground beef to reduce overall fat content.
  • Substitute part of the beef with ground pork for richer flavor.
  • Add minced garlic for additional savory depth.
  • Top with ketchup or tomato sauce if canned tomatoes are unavailable.
  • Mix in fresh herbs such as parsley or dill for brightness.
  • Swap breadcrumbs for crushed crackers for a nostalgic twist.
  • Bake on a rack in a pan to allow excess fat to drain.
  • Let rest 10 minutes before slicing to hold shape.
  • Add shredded cheese on top in the last 10 minutes for a cheesy crust.
  • Serve with mashed potatoes or cabbage for a traditional feel.

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 28gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 140mgSodium: 930mgPotassium: 710mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 550IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3.5mg
Keyword bacon, baked dinner, Beef, comfort food, family dinner, hearty, meatloaf, retro recipe, vintage
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