Diner Meat Loaf
A hearty, flavorful meatloaf combining beef and pork with oatmeal and a savory tomato juice glaze, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, ground pork, instant oatmeal, and beaten eggs in a large bowl.
- Add the remaining ingredients: milk, tomato juice, minced onion, Worcestershire sauce, and salt; blend well.
- Pack the mixture into a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan, shaping into a rounded top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/2 hours.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Drain off any excess juice before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the minced onion before mixing it into the meatloaf. If you don't have instant oatmeal, you can substitute with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers. To enhance moisture, incorporate chopped bell peppers or carrots. A splash of barbecue sauce can also elevate the dish. For a different twist, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or pork for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with Old Fashioned Vegetable Soup(Makes 6 To 8 Servings) for a hearty dinner. For a lighter option, a fresh salad or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments. Don't forget to drizzle some extra tomato juice or barbecue sauce on top before serving for added flavor.
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 microwave or oven. If using the oven, wrap it in foil to retain moisture and heat at 350°F until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Diner Meat Loaf contains roughly 342 calories, with 19g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value) and protein (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 524mg per serving (23% 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 refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just ensure to cover it tightly to prevent drying out. This helps the flavors meld and makes for an easy dinner option on busy days.
What should I do if my meatloaf is too dry?
If your meatloaf turns out dry, it may be due to overcooking or not enough moisture in the mixture. To fix this, serve it with a sauce or gravy. You can also add more tomato juice or Worcestershire sauce next time to improve moisture content.
Can I freeze the meatloaf?
Absolutely! Meatloaf freezes well. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Label and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
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).