Big O'S Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf with savory seasonings and a tangy ketchup glaze, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering comfort and classic flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine egg, evaporated milk, quick cooking oats, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, rubbed sage, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Crumble ground beef over the mixture and mix well.
- Press the mixture into an ungreased 8 x 4 x 2-inch loaf pan.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/4 hours.
- Drain excess fat from the loaf.
- Drizzle with ketchup.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider using ground turkey or chicken in place of beef. If you prefer a spicier flavor, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. To enhance the dish's flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers. Always let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to maintain juiciness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Big O'S Meat Loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. A fresh green salad or steamed broccoli complements the richness of the meatloaf beautifully. For a family-friendly option, pair it with macaroni and cheese, or explore similar flavors with Little Cranberry Meat Loaves.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. For longer storage, freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Big O'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 216 calories, with 6g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value) and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1420mg per serving (62% 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 make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just mold it into the loaf pan when ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for a quick dinner option.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce mixed with a little vinegar for acidity. Alternatively, balsamic vinegar can provide a sweet and tangy flavor that works well in this recipe.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C). If you don't have a thermometer, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and the juices should run clear when cut.
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).