Colin'S Favorite Meat Loaf
A hearty, flavorful meatloaf with a balance of savory tomato and ketchup glaze, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together ground meat, grated onion, tomato sauce, ketchup, oatmeal, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Shape the mixture into one loaf or two smaller loaves.
- Place in a baking dish or loaf pan and cover with a combined 1/2 cup tomato sauce and 1/2 cup ketchup.
- Bake, covered, at 350°F (175°C) for about an hour.
- During the last 15 minutes of baking, remove the cover.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meatloaf, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of mustard to the mixture. You can substitute the ground meat with turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you're out of ketchup, try using barbecue sauce or a mix of tomato paste and honey. For added flavor, incorporate herbs like thyme or parsley.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meatloaf with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a comforting meal. A side of Easy Dill Sauce can elevate the flavors, especially if you’re including a fresh salad. For an even heartier dish, consider pairing it with a slice of warm bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Colin'S Favorite Meat Loaf contains roughly 457 calories, with 13g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (30% of the Daily Value) and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1650mg per serving (72% 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 in the refrigerator. Just shape it into loaves and bake when you're ready to serve. This can save time on busy days and allows the flavors to meld.
What can I use instead of oatmeal?
You can also use cooked rice for a different texture.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer inserted into the center. The juices should run clear, and the meatloaf should be firm to the touch.
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).