Grandma Dodge Meat Loaf
A hearty meatloaf combining ground beef, oats, eggs, and tomato juice, topped with bacon for a savory, family-friendly meal perfect for comforting dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except bacon thoroughly and pack into a loaf pan.
- Place 2 strips of bacon on the top and cover with 1/2 cup tomato juice.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meatloaf, consider adding finely shredded carrots or grated zucchini along with the other ingredients. If you're out of tomato juice, a mixture of canned diced tomatoes and broth can work as a substitute. Experiment with spices like garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor profile, similar to variations found in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grandma Dodge Meat Loaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. A fresh garden salad or steamed green beans also make great accompaniments. For a fun twist, try serving it on a bun with BBQ sauce for sandwiches, reminiscent of Biscuit Sloppy Joes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Dodge Meat Loaf contains roughly 276 calories, with 7g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 588mg per serving (26% 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 a different type of meat for this meatloaf?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, though you may want to adjust the cooking time as lean meats often require less time to cook. For a richer flavor, try mixing in ground pork as well.
What can I use instead of bacon on top?
If you prefer not to use bacon, you can brush the top of the meatloaf with a mixture of ketchup and brown sugar for a sweet glaze. Alternatively, use turkey bacon or even a layer of thinly sliced bell peppers for a healthier twist.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done cooking?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, ensure that the meatloaf is firm to the touch and juices run clear when you cut into it.
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).