Mom'S Mealtime Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf combining ground beef, oatmeal, and savory seasonings, topped with ketchup for a flavorful, family-friendly meal perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together, except ketchup; put in loaf pan.
- Top the mixture with ketchup.
- Place in oven and bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your meatloaf, consider adding minced garlic or Worcestershire sauce. If you want a healthier option, substitute half of the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Oats can be replaced with breadcrumbs for a different texture, but adjust the liquid accordingly. For extra moisture, add shredded carrots or bell peppers to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a classic comfort meal. It pairs beautifully with a Delicious Rice Dish for a hearty twist. For a casual dinner, slice the meatloaf and serve it on a bun, topped with your favorite condiments. A fresh salad on the side can also complement the dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Mealtime Meat Loaf contains roughly 910 calories, with 24g protein, 153g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), protein (48% of the Daily Value), and iron (43% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1164mg per serving (51% 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 recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the ground beef, though you might need to adjust cooking times and add moisture if the meat is leaner. Each option will offer a unique flavor and texture, allowing you to customize the dish to your preference.
What can I do with leftover meatloaf?
Leftover meatloaf is incredibly versatile. You can slice it for sandwiches, crumble it into a Beef Stew With Potato Dumplings, or use it as a topping for a casserole. It also freezes well; just make sure to wrap it tightly for storage. When reheating, ensure it's heated through completely.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done cooking?
The best way to check if your meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F in the center. If you don't have a thermometer, you can cut into the middle to check that it's no longer pink and the juices run clear, which indicates it's fully cooked.
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).