Hearty Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf combining ground beef, sausage, oats, and a tangy ketchup glaze, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a small bowl, combine catsup, brown sugar, and dry mustard; set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, sausage, oats, chopped onion, beaten egg, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well to incorporate all ingredients.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf in a large shallow baking dish.
- Bake for 1 hour.
- Remove from oven and pour half of the sauce mixture over the loaf.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Remove from oven, pour remaining sauce over the loaf, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding finely chopped bell peppers or garlic to the meat mixture. If you prefer a leaner option, substitute turkey sausage for the Bob Evans farm original recipe sausage. You can also use breadcrumbs instead of oats for a different texture. Remember to let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes or green beans for a classic comfort meal. It pairs beautifully with Mom-Mom'S Stuffed Cabbage for a hearty dinner. For a lighter option, consider a fresh salad or roasted vegetables on the side. Don’t forget to offer extra catsup or your favorite sauce for drizzling.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearty Meat Loaf contains roughly 625 calories, with 10g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 594mg 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 different types of meat for this meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can mix different ground meats like turkey, chicken, or pork to customize the flavor and texture. Just ensure that the total weight remains around 2 pounds for the best cooking time and consistency.
How can I prevent my meatloaf from being dry?
To keep your meatloaf moist, avoid overmixing the meat mixture and consider adding a splash of milk or beef broth. Additionally, covering the meatloaf with foil during the first half of baking can help retain moisture.
Can I freeze meatloaf for later use?
Yes, meatloaf freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).