Easy And Good Meat Loaf
A flavorful, hearty meatloaf with a savory tomato glaze, perfect for family dinners and gatherings, combining beef, oats, and rich tomato sauce for comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, quick oats, eggs, onion, salt, pepper, and one can of tomato paste in a bowl.
- Chill the mixture for 1 hour.
- Mold the mixture into a shallow baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Pour the second can of tomato paste over the meatloaf and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until nicely glazed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful meatloaf, consider adding minced garlic or herbs like thyme or parsley. You can substitute breadcrumbs for the quick oats if desired, but the oats keep it moist. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, mix in a tablespoon of brown sugar with the tomato paste. For a twist, try topping it with BBQ sauce instead of tomato paste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with the Hot Chipped Beef Appetizer for a hearty gathering. A side salad can also add freshness to your plate. For a twist, consider serving it on a bun as a meatloaf sandwich.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy And Good Meat Loaf contains roughly 249 calories, with 10g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (167% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and potassium (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1845mg per serving (80% 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 ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef in this recipe. Keep in mind that turkey may result in a slightly drier meatloaf, so consider adding a bit more moisture, like an additional egg or some broth.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
To ensure your meatloaf is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. It should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure it’s firm to the touch and the juices run clear.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This allows for more even cooking.
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).