Mrs. Jones Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf combining ground chuck, pork, and oatmeal, flavored with vegetables and herbs, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onions, celery, and green pepper until soft.
- Mix eggs, ketchup, thyme, and oatmeal together with the ground meat.
- Ensure oatmeal is visible in the mixture.
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the meat mixture and mix well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf in a baking dish.
- Top with bacon strips.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist meatloaf, ensure the oatmeal is well incorporated but still visible. You can substitute ground turkey for ground chuck for a lighter option. Adding some Worcestershire sauce can enhance the flavor. If you prefer, use breadcrumbs instead of oatmeal for a different texture. You can also add spices like paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mrs. Jones Meat Loaf with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Microwave Au Gratin Green Beans for a colorful side. For a refreshing contrast, consider a simple green salad with a vinaigrette. You can also serve it with ketchup or barbecue sauce on the side for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. For best results, you can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Jones Meat Loaf contains roughly 245 calories, with 7g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (184% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1183mg 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 make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.
What can I substitute for ground pork?
If you don't have ground pork, you can substitute it with more ground chuck or ground turkey. You can also use finely chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian option, which will add moisture and flavor to the meatloaf.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Alternatively, you can cut into the center to ensure the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.
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).