Tom'S Famous Meat Loaf
Tom's Famous Meat Loaf is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring seasoned ground beef blended with vegetables and oats, topped with tangy catsup. Its comforting taste and versatile nature make it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying meal with a classic American appeal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together ground beef, beaten egg, salt, pepper, oregano, chili powder, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, Heinz catsup, and minute oats. Add more oats if needed for a soft but not firm consistency.
- Put the mixture into a loaf pan or 9 x 13 inch pan and shape into a loaf.
- Bake until cooked through, approximately 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of soy sauce to the mixture. If you're out of minute oats, you can substitute with breadcrumbs. To ensure the meatloaf stays moist, avoid overmixing the ingredients. You can also top the loaf with additional Heinz catsup before baking for a tangy glaze.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meat loaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans for a comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with a simple salad or roasted vegetables. For a twist, try it in a sandwich with your favorite condiments. Don’t forget to explore more American recipes for a complete dinner menu.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. For best results, add a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tom'S Famous Meat Loaf contains roughly 707 calories, with 14g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (37% of the Daily Value), iron (36% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1760mg per serving (77% 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 meat loaf ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape it into a loaf and bake it when you're ready to serve. This can help the flavors meld together for an even tastier result.
How can I tell when the meat loaf is done?
The meat loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You can check this with a meat thermometer. If you don’t have one, the meat should no longer be pink in the center, and the juices should run clear.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, use a mixture of lentils and finely chopped vegetables, adjusting the spices and seasonings to maintain flavor.
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).