Saucy Little Meat Loaves(From The Files Of Louella Scott Williams)
Savory meat loaves with a tangy tomato topping, perfect for comforting family dinners and gatherings, combining seasoned ground beef with oats and a sweet, mustard-kissed glaze.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, oats, salt, pepper, chopped onion, beaten egg, and milk thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into 6 individual meat loaves in a shallow baking pan.
- Mix catsup, brown sugar, and prepared mustard to make the topping.
- Spread the topping over each loaf.
- Bake at 350°F for about 35 minutes for individual loaves.
- For a large loaf, pack the mixture into an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2-inch loaf pan.
- Spread the topping over the large loaf and bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some Worcestershire sauce or garlic powder with the ground beef mixture. If you're out of Quaker oats, substitute with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially if you enjoy a spicier profile.
Serving Suggestions
These saucy little meat loaves pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad. Consider serving with a side of Party Rice for a delightful combination. For a complete meal, add steamed vegetables or a baked potato. A drizzle of extra catsup on top can enhance the flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meat loaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but they may lose some texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Saucy Little Meat Loaves(From The Files Of Louella Scott Williams) contains roughly 673 calories, with 13g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1515mg per serving (66% 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 freeze the meat loaves before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped meat loaves before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I use instead of catsup for the topping?
If you prefer not to use catsup, you can substitute it with barbecue sauce or a homemade tomato sauce. Mixing in some chopped herbs or spices can also enhance the flavor of the topping while keeping it deliciously saucy.
How do I know when the meat loaves are done cooking?
To check if the meat loaves are done, use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F. Alternatively, you can cut into one of the loaves to ensure that the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink in the center.
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).