Rolled Oats Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf with tender oats, vegetables, and flavorful seasonings, perfect for comforting family dinners and versatile enough to suit various tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion and celery until tender-crisp in oil.
- Mix together the tomato juice, oats, eggs, onion, celery, poultry seasoning, black pepper, and parsley.
- Add the mixture to the ground beef and mix well.
- Pack the meat mixture tightly into a pan or ring.
- Pour tomato sauce on top before baking.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 1 hour.
- Let stand about 5 minutes before cutting.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider mixing in a grated carrot or finely chopped bell pepper. If you don't have rolled oats, quick oats can work as a substitute, though the texture may differ slightly. Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken in place of beef for a lighter option. This meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the rolled oats meatloaf with a side of steamed vegetables or roasted potatoes for a hearty meal. A tangy barbecue sauce or a dollop of ketchup on top adds extra flavor. For a refreshing contrast, pair it with a simple green salad. This dish is also great for sandwiches the next day, making it a versatile option for lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rolled Oats Meat Loaf contains roughly 713 calories, with 23g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (154% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (125% of the Daily Value), and calcium (78% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. It also contributes 35g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of tomato juice?
If you don't have tomato juice, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or a mixture of crushed tomatoes with water. This will still provide moisture and flavor to the meatloaf without compromising the overall taste.
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 for accuracy. If you don’t have one, make sure the meatloaf is firm to the touch and the juices run clear when cut.
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).