Meat Loaf With Oats
A hearty meat loaf with oats, flavored with tangy tomato sauce, Worcestershire, mustard, and chili powder, perfect for comforting family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine tomato sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, chili powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a saucepan, mixing well.
- Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, remaining salt, half of the tomato sauce mixture, evaporated milk, oats, chopped onion, and pepper, mixing well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in a shallow baking pan.
- Pour the remaining tomato sauce mixture over the meat loaf.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some finely chopped bell peppers or garlic into the meat mixture. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free oats. You can also substitute ground turkey for a lighter version or swap the Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce for a different flavor. Make sure to let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to maintain its shape.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like Baked Hamburgers In Sauce or a fresh garden salad for a lighter touch. You can also top it with additional tomato sauce or ketchup before serving for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf With Oats contains roughly 628 calories, with 14g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (50% of the Daily Value), calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2410mg per serving (105% 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 meatloaf?
Yes, meatloaf freezes well! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat can be used as substitutes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat’s fat content.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check if the meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should register at least 160°F (70°C) in the center. If you don’t have a thermometer, ensure the meatloaf is firm and juices run clear when sliced.
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).