Quick-Easy Meat Loaf
A hearty, flavorful meat loaf with a tender texture, seasoned simply with tomato juice, oats, and onion, perfect for a quick, satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine tomato juice, quick oats, egg or egg white, chopped onion, salt (if using), and pepper in a mixing bowl; mix well.
- Add lean ground beef; mix lightly but thoroughly.
- Press the mixture into an 8 x 4-inch loaf pan.
- Bake for 1 hour.
- Drain excess fat or juices from the meat loaf.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, try adding minced garlic or Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. If you don't have quick oats, rolled oats can work in a pinch, but may alter the texture slightly. You can also substitute ground turkey for the beef for a lighter option. For added moisture, consider mixing in some grated carrots or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort meal. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Drizzle with a homemade barbecue sauce for added flavor. For a twist, try serving it with a slice of bread for a hearty sandwich.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in a microwave or oven until heated through. You can also freeze slices wrapped tightly for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick-Easy Meat Loaf contains roughly 350 calories, with 8g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1976mg per serving (86% 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 meat mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of tomato juice?
If you don't have tomato juice, you can substitute with tomato sauce or even crushed tomatoes. For a different flavor profile, consider using vegetable broth mixed with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to maintain the acidity.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check if the meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F (70°C) when fully cooked. Alternatively, you can cut into the center to ensure there is no pink meat remaining and the juices run clear.
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).