Mom'S Prize Winning Meat Loaf
A hearty, flavorful meatloaf combining beef, oats, and seasonings, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Pack firmly into an ungreased loaf pan (8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2 inches).
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until done.
- Let stand 5 minutes before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding minced garlic or diced bell peppers to the mixture. If you don't have oats, breadcrumbs can be a suitable substitute. Ensure to pack the meatloaf tightly to maintain its shape while baking. For added moisture, you can mix in a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, enhancing the depth of flavor in this classic dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mom's Prize Winning Meat Loaf with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or steamed green beans, for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Baked Meat Pies for a hearty spread. For a complete dinner, consider a fresh salad or roasted vegetables on the side, enhancing the meal with color and nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a baking dish with a splash of tomato juice or broth to prevent drying out. Cover with foil and heat in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Prize Winning Meat Loaf contains roughly 435 calories, with 12g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value) and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1189mg per serving (52% 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 beef for this meatloaf?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a healthier alternative to ground beef. However, it may result in a slightly drier meatloaf. To combat this, consider adding an extra egg or a bit of olive oil to maintain moisture while retaining flavor.
What can I do if my meatloaf is too dry?
If you find your meatloaf is too dry after baking, try adding a sauce on top before serving, such as a mixture of ketchup and brown sugar. Additionally, ensure that you are not overbaking the meatloaf, as this can lead to dryness. Keeping it moist during storage is also crucial.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done cooking?
To ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 160°F. Alternatively, you can cut into the center; it should no longer be pink and the juices should run clear. Letting it rest before slicing helps retain moisture.
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).