South Dakota Meat Loaf
A hearty American meat loaf featuring oats, onion, and Worcestershire sauce, baked to perfection and topped with ketchup for a savory, comforting meal suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine egg, evaporated milk, quick-cooking oats, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, rubbed sage, and pepper.
- Crumble ground beef over the mixture and mix well.
- Press the mixture into an ungreased 8 x 4 x 2 inch loaf pan.
- Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 hour and 15 minutes; drain any excess fat.
- Spread ketchup over the top before baking or serve on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some minced garlic or chopped bell peppers. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute half of the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Using rolled oats instead of quick-cooking oats can also enhance the texture. Make sure to let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it moist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your South Dakota Meat Loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or coleslaw. For a twist, try spreading a layer of barbecue sauce instead of ketchup for a smoky flavor. This dish is a classic in American recipes and is perfect for family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice individual portions and warm them in the microwave or cover the loaf with foil and heat in a 350°F oven until warmed through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months; just be sure to wrap it tightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of South Dakota Meat Loaf contains roughly 329 calories, with 10g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2055mg per serving (89% 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. Just cover it and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
If you don't have Worcestershire sauce on hand, you can substitute it with soy sauce mixed with a little vinegar and sugar for a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, a blend of balsamic vinegar and hot sauce can work in a pinch.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
To check if the meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. The exterior should be browned, and the juices should run clear when you cut into it.
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).