Cottage Cheese Meat Loaf
A hearty and flavorful meat loaf combining lean ground beef with cottage cheese, oats, and seasonings for a moist, protein-packed dish. Topped with Parmesan, it offers a savory, cheesy taste perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Easy to prepare and sure to satisfy all appetites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine cottage cheese, egg, ketchup, chopped onion, prepared mustard, quick cooking oats, salt, and pepper.
- Add the lean ground beef to the mixture and mix well.
- Press the mixture into an ungreased 8-inch square baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
- Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes or until the meat is no longer pink.
- Drain excess fat and let stand for 10 minutes before cutting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist meatloaf, ensure not to overmix the ingredients once the beef is added. You can substitute the quick cooking oats with breadcrumbs if desired. If you prefer a tangier flavor, consider adding Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. This recipe is a great twist on Homestyle Meat Loaf, showcasing cottage cheese for added creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Cottage Cheese Meat Loaf with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. A drizzle of additional ketchup or a homemade barbecue sauce can enhance the flavor. Pairing with a simple salad or roasted vegetables can add freshness to balance the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. You may also reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cottage Cheese Meat Loaf contains roughly 202 calories, with 13g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (68% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2205mg per serving (96% 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 use cottage cheese with a different fat content?
Yes, you can use low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese, but it may slightly alter the texture and moisture of the meatloaf. Higher fat content adds richness, while lower fat will make it leaner. Adjust seasonings if necessary to enhance flavor.
How can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute quick cooking oats with gluten-free oats or use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure that all other ingredients, like ketchup and mustard, are certified gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
What can I add for extra flavor?
You can incorporate additional spices like garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or even some diced bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. For a unique twist, consider mixing in some chopped fresh herbs or a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
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).