Are you looking for a hearty and nutritious meal that the whole family will love? Look no further than our Healthy and Easy Meatloaf Recipe! This classic dish is packed with flavor and made with wholesome ingredients to keep you satisfied. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, this meatloaf is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Meat:
- 2 lbs Ground beef
Produce:
- 1 tsp Garlic
- 1/3 cup Onions
Refrigerated:
- 1 Egg, large
Breakfast Foods:
- 1 cup Oatmeal
Canned Goods:
- 12 oz Evaporated milk
Condiments:
- 1 cup Catsup
- 1/4 cup Mustard
- 1 1/3 tbsp Worcester sauce
Baking & Spices:
- 1 tbsp Brown sugar
- 1 tsp Pepper
- 1 tsp Salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil and set it aside.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, minced garlic, finely chopped onions, egg, oatmeal, evaporated milk, brown sugar, pepper, salt, mustard, and Worcester sauce. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form the Loaf: Transfer the meatloaf mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down firmly and smoothing out the top with a spatula or back of a spoon.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the catsup and additional brown sugar. Spread the mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve hot slices with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Add finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the meatloaf mixture for added flavor and nutrients.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free oats or almond flour instead of traditional oatmeal for a gluten-free version of this meatloaf.
- Turkey Variation: Substitute ground turkey for the ground beef for a leaner alternative.
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover the loaf pan tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly if the meatloaf is chilled.
Q: How should I store leftovers? A: Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Q: Can I freeze meatloaf? A: Yes, you can freeze meatloaf either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, prepare the meatloaf mixture, shape it into a loaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed. If freezing after baking, let the meatloaf cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Keto-Friendly Version
For a keto-friendly version of this meatloaf, you can make the following substitutions:
- Oatmeal: Replace the oatmeal with almond flour or crushed pork rinds to reduce the carb content.
- Evaporated Milk: Substitute evaporated milk with heavy cream or coconut milk for a higher-fat option.
- Brown Sugar: Use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener instead of brown sugar.
- Ketchup: Look for sugar-free ketchup or make your own using tomato paste and keto-friendly sweeteners.
Low-Carb Version
To make a low-carb version of this meatloaf, follow the keto-friendly substitutions mentioned above. Additionally, you can omit the catsup topping or use a sugar-free alternative.
In conclusion, our Healthy and Easy Meatloaf Recipe is a simple and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor, this meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re following a specific diet or simply looking for a delicious and comforting meal, this recipe has you covered. So, why wait? Give this meatloaf a try and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade comfort food!
