All American Meat Loaf
All American Meat Loaf offers a hearty, flavorful classic combining ground chuck, oats, and a tangy catsup and horseradish topping. Its savory profile makes it perfect for family dinners or gatherings, delivering comfort with every slice and appealing to meat lovers seeking a nostalgic, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground chuck, quick cooking oats, chopped onion, 1/2 cup catsup, milk, beaten eggs, 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Shape the mixture into 2 loaves, each about 7 1/2 x 4 inches.
- Place the loaves on a lightly greased rack of a broiler pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes.
- Spread 1/2 cup catsup and 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish over the loaves before baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding diced bell peppers or minced garlic to the meat mixture. If you don't have quick cooking oats, you can substitute with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Don't skip the horseradish; it adds a unique depth of flavor that complements the meat well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with a hearty side of mashed potatoes, such as Company Mashed Potatoes, and steamed vegetables for a classic meal. It also pairs well with a fresh salad like Drop In Salad. For a comforting twist, try adding a side of macaroni and cheese. Don't forget some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices!
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave slices for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of All American Meat Loaf contains roughly 332 calories, with 5g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 915mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the meatloaf?
Yes, meatloaf freezes well! After baking and cooling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to enjoy later.
What can I use instead of ground chuck?
You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or even ground pork for added flavor. If you're looking for vegetarian options, consider using lentils or a meat substitute like textured vegetable protein to create a meatless loaf.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done cooking?
The best way to check if your meatloaf is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F in the center. If you don’t have one, you can cut into the center; the juices should run clear and the meat should no longer be pink.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).