Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's both comforting and surprisingly healthy? Look no further than this delicious meatloaf recipe! This isn't your grandma's meatloaf (although she might love it too!). We've added a secret ingredient – oatmeal – for extra moisture and a delightful texture, along with a touch of brown sugar to enhance the savory sweetness. Get ready for a quick dinner idea that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. This easy recipe delivers a homemade cooking experience the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup for topping (optional)
Instructions:
-
Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This simple step ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
-
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the milk and egg. Let the oats sit in the milk mixture for about 5-10 minutes to soften. This helps create a moist and tender meatloaf.
-
Mix the Meatloaf: Add the ground beef, softened oats (with milk), brown sugar, ketchup, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
-
Shape and Bake: Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Spread the remaining 1/4 cup of ketchup evenly over the top for a beautiful glaze and added flavor.
-
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through.
-
Rest and 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. Serve with your favorite sides – mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad all complement this delicious dish perfectly.
Cooking Tips for the Best Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can make it tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps retain its moisture and makes for easier slicing.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings like barbecue sauce, brown sugar, or even crumbled bacon.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Use different ground meat: Substitute ground turkey or a combination of ground beef and pork for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This meatloaf recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy food recipes. It's a simple recipe that's perfect for busy weeknights, offering a hearty and satisfying meal without sacrificing flavor or ease of preparation. Enjoy this quick dinner idea and elevate your homemade cooking game! It truly is one of the best recipes you'll find for a classic comfort food.