Heart Smart Meat Loaf
A heart-healthy meat loaf combining lean beef, oats, and tomatoes for moist, flavorful comfort food suitable for family dinners or health-conscious meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Measure 1 cup of stewed tomatoes and puree in a blender; save the remaining stewed tomatoes for later.
- Combine the pureed tomatoes, oats, beaten egg, chopped onion, pepper, and mix well.
- Add lean ground beef to the mixture; mix lightly but thoroughly.
- Press the mixture into an 8 x 4-inch loaf pan.
- Bake for 1 hour.
- During the last 15 minutes of baking, spread the remaining stewed tomatoes on top of the meatloaf.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of lean ground beef. You can also add grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots for extra moisture and nutrition. If you prefer a spicier flavor, mix in some diced jalapeños. Remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly if you use flavored oats.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Heart Smart Meat Loaf with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Mashed potatoes or Crazy Rice make excellent accompaniments. For a heartier dish, consider pairing it with Mom's Vegetable Beef Soup. Drizzle with a bit of extra stewed tomatoes for added flavor and moisture.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in the microwave on a microwave-safe plate, covered with a damp paper towel, for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Heart Smart Meat Loaf contains roughly 512 calories, with 32g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (65% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent any contamination. You can also freeze it before baking; wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.
What can I substitute for the oats?
If you don't have oats, you can use breadcrumbs or crushed whole grain crackers as a binding agent. For a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground flaxseed mixed with a bit of water to replace the oats.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check if your meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F (70°C) in the center. If you don't have a thermometer, ensure the meatloaf is firm to the touch and the juices run clear when cut.
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).