Meat Loaf can't be beat for make-ahead. I have tried several recipes, but this is our favorite.
Sausage and Gr.Beef; 1/2 and 1/2; for just 2, I use 1# meat, or it can be all g.beef.
Put meat in a bowl and add: 1/2 t.salt; 1/4 t. pepper, 1/2 t. sage. 3 . grated onion, or minced onion.
Toast 2 times 2 pieces bread; break into pieces. Add to 1 and 1/2 c. milk and 2 eggs, beaten. Let stand to let the break become well soaked and can be broken into crumbs.
Add to meat mixture and mix very well.
Put into a pan, smooth down, and make holes all over with a fork. Put ketchup over top, and let it sink into the holes.
Bake 375-45 min., or put in refrig/or freezer and bake before serving. Either way is fine.
This is one of our favorite recipes. My DH loves meat loaf sands, and I think our DS knows when we are having them; he just shows up to eat one!!
Good Luck with your Surgery, and Prayers.
Enjoy the meat loaf.
Mariah.