Lite Meat Loaf
A flavorful light meat loaf combining lean ground beef, oatmeal bread, and a tangy reduced-calorie catsup glaze. Perfect for a wholesome family dinner, it offers a savory, well-seasoned experience with hints of onion, mustard, and horseradish. Ideal for those seeking a healthier comfort food option.
Ingredients
- 2 slices light oatmeal bread, cubed ⓘ
- 1 egg, beaten ⓘ
- 1 lb. ground chuck ⓘ
- 1/4 cup reduced calorie catsup ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons minced onion ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons mustard ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons horseradish ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder ⓘ
- 1/4 cup bell pepper ⓘ
- 1/8 teaspoon poultry seasoning ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix well until thoroughly blended.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in a 7 x 4 x 2-inch loaf pan coated with cooking spray.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Optional: Place pepper slices on top of the meat loaf before baking for decoration.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider substituting half of the ground chuck with ground turkey or chicken. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought breadcrumbs instead of cubing oatmeal bread. To enhance flavor, try adding spices like smoked paprika or fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme. This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lite meat loaf with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Broccoli Au Gratin for a comforting dinner. For a hearty sandwich, enjoy leftover meatloaf on whole-grain bread with your favorite condiments. You can also serve it with mashed potatoes or a quinoa salad for a nutritious side.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the meatloaf cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lite Meat Loaf contains roughly 107 calories, with 3g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (89% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. It also contributes 4g 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 a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Shape it into a loaf and bake it when you're ready to serve. This will allow the flavors to meld together, making for a tastier dish.
What can I use instead of ground chuck?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, try using lentils or chickpeas as a base. Just remember to adjust the baking time as needed, depending on the moisture content of your substitutions.
Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
Absolutely! Chopped carrots, zucchini, or even spinach can be mixed into the meatloaf for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to chop them finely to ensure even cooking and texture throughout the loaf.
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).