Meat Loaf With Piquant Sauce
A hearty meat loaf with a tangy tomato-based sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The combination of ground beef, oats, and onions creates a flavorful, moist loaf, while the piquant sauce adds a delightful zest. Easy to prepare and universally appealing, it suits all tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients and mix lightly.
- Press the mixture into an 8 x 4-inch loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Drain excess juice from the loaf.
- Let the meat loaf set for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating minced garlic or Worcestershire sauce into the meat mixture. If you're looking to reduce carbs, you can substitute Quaker oats with crushed almond flour. Ensure not to overmix the meat loaf to maintain a tender texture. For a variation, try adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the mix, which can enhance both flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a hearty meal. For a fresh twist, pair it with a crisp salad, like a classic Caesar or a Man Sized Steak Salad, to balance the richness. A drizzle of piquant sauce over the meat loaf enhances its flavor, and consider serving it with crusty bread for a complete dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meat loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, which can last for up to three months. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf With Piquant Sauce contains roughly 608 calories, with 13g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), iron (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 544mg per serving (24% 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 ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. However, it may yield a drier meat loaf, so consider adding a bit more tomato juice or even some diced vegetables to keep it moist.
What can I serve with meat loaf?
Meat loaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Classic options include mashed potatoes and green beans, but you could also serve it with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a refreshing contrast. For something different, try it with a side of Crescent Casserole.
How can I tell when the meat loaf is done?
The meat loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You can check this with a meat thermometer inserted into the center. Additionally, the meat loaf should be firm to the touch and have a nice golden-brown crust on the outside.
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).