Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a comforting, delicious, and surprisingly healthy meal? Then look no further! This meatloaf recipe, packed with oats and eggs for extra moisture and binding, is the perfect answer. It's a classic dish elevated with a few simple tweaks, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. This quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights, and the homemade cooking aspect guarantees a flavour explosion that will leave everyone wanting more.
Why This Meatloaf Recipe Stands Out
This isn't your grandma's meatloaf (unless your grandma was a culinary genius!). We've enhanced the classic recipe by incorporating oats for added texture and nutritional value, and eggs to ensure a beautifully moist and flavorful result. This creates a delicious dish that's both satisfying and surprisingly healthy. It's one of the best recipes for a hearty, home-cooked meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (you can use a leaner blend for a healthier option)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:
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Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan (approximately 9x5 inches).
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, rolled oats, beaten egg, onion, green bell pepper, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
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Shape the Loaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
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Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
Tips for Meatloaf Success:
- Don't Overmix: Gently combine the ingredients. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This is crucial for ensuring the meatloaf is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Delicious Variations:
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Mix in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy delight.
- BBQ Meatloaf: Substitute BBQ sauce for the ketchup for a smoky, sweet flavor.
- Italian Meatloaf: Add 1/4 cup of sun-dried tomatoes and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: Approximately 25g
- Fat: Approximately 20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15g
This meatloaf recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a perfect example of how delicious and healthy homemade cooking can be. Try it tonight and experience the joy of a comforting, flavorful, and satisfying meal. Enjoy!