Little Cheddar Loaves
Savory little loaves packed with ground beef, cheddar, and oats, offering hearty flavor perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, oatmeal, salt, grated cheddar cheese, chopped onion, egg, and milk in a large bowl.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into 6 small loaves.
- Place the loaves in a shallow baking pan.
- In a separate bowl, combine remaining ingredients (catsup, mustard, brown sugar) and mix well.
- Pour the topping mixture over the loaves.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes until cooked through and browned on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce with the meat mixture. If you're short on oatmeal, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs can be good substitutions. Make sure to shape the loaves evenly for consistent cooking. If you prefer a spicy kick, try adding diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the topping mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These Little Cheddar Loaves are delicious served with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. They also pair well with baked beans for a hearty dinner. For a fun twist, consider slicing the loaves and serving them on slider buns for a tasty appetizer at your next gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Little Cheddar Loaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave, but be cautious as it may dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Little Cheddar Loaves contains roughly 777 calories, with 37g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (73% of the Daily Value), calcium (72% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2200mg per serving (96% 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 freeze the Little Cheddar Loaves?
Yes, you can freeze the loaves before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil; they can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. If frozen after baking, just reheat from frozen until warmed through.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, use lentils or a mix of black beans and quinoa, adjusting the moisture and binding agents accordingly for the best texture.
How do I know when the loaves are done cooking?
The loaves are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) and are nicely browned on top. You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. If you prefer, you can also cut one open to check that it's no longer pink inside.
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).