Horseradish Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf infused with horseradish for a spicy kick, perfect for family dinners or gatherings that enjoy bold flavors and comforting classics.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, oats, chopped onion, ketchup, milk, beaten eggs, prepared horseradish, salt, and pepper in a large bowl; stir well.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until cooked through.
- Mix 1/2 cup ketchup with 3 tablespoons brown sugar to create the topping.
- Spread the ketchup mixture over the loaf during the last 15 minutes of baking, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding grated carrots or bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of horseradish or substitute it with a splash of Worcestershire sauce. To ensure the meatloaf stays moist, avoid overmixing the ingredients. Using lean ground beef is recommended, but you can substitute with ground turkey for a healthier option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the horseradish meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes or a side of roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. A fresh green salad or coleslaw can add a nice crunch and balance the flavors. This dish pairs beautifully with Barbecued Meats for a hearty feast, making it perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the microwave or cover it with foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just make sure to wrap it well.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Horseradish Meat Loaf contains roughly 284 calories, with 6g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (146% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1513mg per serving (66% 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 this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape it into a loaf and cover it tightly. When you're ready to bake, simply place it in a preheated oven. This helps the flavors meld together and makes for a convenient meal.
What can I use instead of oats in this recipe?
If you're looking for an alternative to oats, breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can work well as a binder. You can also use cooked quinoa or rice for a gluten-free option. Just make sure the substitute is finely ground or chopped to blend well with the other ingredients.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
To ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check its internal temperature; it should reach 160°F (70°C). Alternatively, cut into the center of the loaf to check that there’s no pink meat and the juices run clear. This guarantees that it’s safe and delicious.
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).