Founders' Day Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf featuring ground beef, vegetables, and oatmeal, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a flavorful, satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except tomato juice together in a bowl.
- Add the tomato juice and mix until the mixture holds together.
- Form the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking pan.
- If desired, prepare a topping, pour it over the meat loaf.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding Worcestershire sauce or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a gluten-free version, replace oatmeal with ground almonds or gluten-free breadcrumbs. To keep the meat loaf moist, ensure not to overmix when combining the ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat loaf with mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Macaroni Skillet for a comforting dinner. You can also slice it and use in sandwiches for lunch the next day. A dollop of ketchup or barbecue sauce on top adds a nice touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meat loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave on medium power for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Founders' Day Meat Loaf contains roughly 881 calories, with 19g protein, 170g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (55% of the Daily Value), calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and protein (37% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 783mg per serving (34% 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 the meat loaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat loaf mixture a day in advance. Simply cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of tomato juice?
If you don't have tomato juice, you can substitute it with canned diced tomatoes blended into a puree, or use vegetable broth mixed with a bit of tomato paste for added flavor. Both alternatives will work well to keep the meat loaf moist.
How do I know when the meat loaf is done?
The meat loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the top should be browned and the juices should run clear when punctured with a knife.
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).