Tired of complicated recipes and endless grocery lists? Craving a comforting, delicious meal that won't take all evening to prepare? Then this 4-ingredient meatloaf is your answer! This surprisingly simple recipe delivers all the juicy, savory goodness of a classic meatloaf with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, this is one of those easy recipes that will become a family favorite in no time. It’s a healthy meal, a quick dinner idea, and a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can create with homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
You'll only need four simple ingredients to make this incredibly flavorful meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a blend of ground beef and pork)
- 1 (15 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup quick-cooking oats (rolled oats also work, but cooking time may increase)
- 1 large egg
Instructions:
This recipe is so easy, even beginner cooks will find it a breeze!
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan (approximately 9x5 inches). This step ensures easy removal of the cooked meatloaf.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, crushed tomatoes, oats, and egg. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf. A few gentle folds are all you need.
- Shape & Bake: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here to ensure it's cooked through.
- Rest & Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
Tips for Meatloaf Success:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can make it tough. Gentle mixing is key.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Add flavor variations: While this recipe is fantastic as is, you can easily customize it with your favorite spices and herbs. A dash of garlic powder, onion powder, or even some Worcestershire sauce can elevate the flavor profile.
- Get creative with sides: This meatloaf pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Variations:
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese blend before baking.
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Veggie Meatloaf: Incorporate ½ cup of finely chopped vegetables like onions, carrots, or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This incredibly easy 4-ingredient meatloaf recipe is a true testament to the fact that delicious, healthy meals don't have to be complicated. It's a perfect example of a quick dinner idea, ideal for busy weeknights, and a great recipe for anyone looking to improve their homemade cooking skills. Enjoy!