Ida Lee Sheffield'S Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf featuring ground beef, oats, and cheese, baked with tomato juice for a comforting, family-friendly dish with savory flavors and a moist texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together ground beef, oats, beaten eggs, chopped onion, salt, and pepper.
- Divide half of the meat mixture and place it in a pan.
- Layer the pan with sliced mild Cheddar cheese and sliced dill pickles, then add the remaining meat mixture on top.
- Pour the can of tomato juice over the assembled meat loaf.
- Bake in the oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider mixing in a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of milk. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. Additionally, feel free to switch out the oats with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for different textures. This meatloaf is versatile and can be customized to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes or green beans for a classic meal. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Martha'S Company Casserole(Low-Fat Version) or some crusty bread to soak up the tomato juice.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cover the meatloaf tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm. Alternatively, reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ida Lee Sheffield'S Meat Loaf contains roughly 305 calories, with 12g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (174% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2233mg per serving (97% 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, chicken, or even pork if you prefer. Just be mindful that different meats may require slight adjustments in cooking time or added moisture to ensure they don’t dry out.
How can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
To make this meatloaf gluten-free, substitute traditional oats with certified gluten-free oats and ensure the tomato juice does not contain any gluten. You can also use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs as a binder.
What can I do if my meatloaf is too dry?
If your meatloaf turns out dry, try adding a bit more tomato juice or a sauce on top before serving. You can also incorporate grated vegetables like carrots or zucchini into the mix to add moisture for next time.
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).