V-8 Meat Loaf
V-8 Meat Loaf combines savory ground beef with vegetable juice, oatmeal, and fresh vegetables for a moist, flavorful dish. Its hearty taste and simple ingredients make it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a nutritious twist on traditional meatloaf with a hint of vegetable goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the ground beef, V-8 vegetable juice, and the well beaten egg in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the oatmeal and mix until the mixture is really moist and well blended.
- Add the chopped onions, chopped bell pepper, salt, and black pepper to the mixture, and mix thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until cooked through and browned on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier option, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also substitute the oatmeal with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers if preferred. If you want to add more vegetables, grated carrots or zucchini work well. Ensure the mixture is moist enough, as the V-8 juice contributes to the overall flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the meatloaf and serve it with mashed potatoes or a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Easy Vegetable-Beef Soup for a comforting dinner. For a fresh touch, add a side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the meatloaf.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave it on a microwave-safe plate for quicker results, adding a splash of V-8 juice to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of V-8 Meat Loaf contains roughly 298 calories, with 7g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (108% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (91% of the Daily Value), and iron (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1337mg per serving (58% 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 meatloaf before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the center. Additionally, the top should be browned and firm to the touch.
What can I use instead of V-8 juice?
If you don't have V-8 juice, you can substitute it with tomato juice or a mixture of tomato sauce and vegetable broth. Adding some Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce can help replicate the flavor profile of V-8.
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).