Whenever the question of “What’s for dinner?” came up, our unanimous answer would often be this meatloaf. The mere thought of it made our mouths water and our tummies growl. And honestly, who could resist that delicious glaze of ketchup on top? This meatloaf was the star of many family gatherings, from simple Sunday meals to festive holiday feasts. Even as a quick weeknight dinner, it offered a sense of occasion.
As the oven wafts out those signature savory aromas, it reminds me of stories shared over dinner, each slice of the meatloaf holding a piece of our family tale. It wasn’t just about the food; it was the entire experience—setting the table together, divvying up chores, and the joy of that first bite that always led to a satisfied “Mmm.”
So, if you’ve been craving comfort food that ties up old memories with the warmth of home, you might find this Old-Fashioned Meatloaf to be just the ticket. Gather your ingredients, warm up your oven, and dive into a dinner that doesn’t just taste good but feels good too. After all, creating lasting memories with each hearty slice is what it’s all about. Let’s make some magic in the kitchen!
How to Make Old-Fashioned Meatloaf With Oatmeal
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Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of lean ground beef (like 80/20 ground chuck)
- ¾ cup of oats (any brand will do)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup of ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of sea salt
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
Directions:
- Set your oven to preheat at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large bowl, gently whisk the eggs until they’re well mixed.
- Combine the oats, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and ketchup in with the eggs.
- Using your hands, mix the ingredients until they just hold together. Be cautious not to overmix.
- Press the mixture evenly into a greased or foil-lined baking dish, shaping it into a loaf that’s about 2 inches thick. Spread an extra layer of ketchup over the top if desired, for added flavor.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about an hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees. Use a meat thermometer to check.
- Once out of the oven, allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. Then, dig in and enjoy!
Customizing Old-Fashioned Meatloaf: Alternative Ingredients
If you’re short on an ingredient or looking for a twist, here are some nifty substitutions. Ground turkey can be used in place of beef for a leaner option. Swap the oats with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers if you’d prefer. For a different flavor profile, consider BBQ sauce a substitute for ketchup.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Meatloaf Last Longer
To preserve any leftover meatloaf, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to freeze it, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then foil, and tuck them into a freezer bag. It’ll keep for up to three months this way.
Perfect Pairings for Old-Fashioned Meatloaf
This meatloaf pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh, crisp salad for a delightful contrast. Consider adding a side of sautéed green beans, and to elevate the meal, pair it with a robust red wine or a chilled glass of iced tea.
Secrets to Perfecting Old-Fashioned Meatloaf
For the juiciest meatloaf, avoid overmixing to maintain the meat’s tenderness. Adding moisture-rich ingredients like ketchup and onions ensures each slice is full of flavor. And always, allow your meatloaf to rest; it helps all the delicious juices to redistribute evenly.
Seasonal Twists for Old-Fashioned Meatloaf
Make it a springtime meatloaf by adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil. During the fall, diced apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon can offer a comforting autumnal flavor. In summer, preparing it with jalapeños and a touch of lime zest can add a zesty kick.
FAQs:
Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can work well if you’re looking to cut down on red meat. Just keep in mind these leaner meats might need extra moisture, so you could add a little more ketchup or a splash of milk.
Is it possible to make this meatloaf gluten-free?
Yes, indeed! You can replace the oats with gluten-free oats or crushed rice cakes to maintain the right texture. Additionally, ensure that the Worcestershire sauce you use is gluten-free, as not all brands are.
What’s the best way to know when the meatloaf is done?
To ensure your meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should read 160 degrees Fahrenheit when inserted into the center. It’s a no-fail way to know it’s safe and perfectly done.
Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time?
Definitely. You can prepare the mixture and shape the loaf a day in advance. Cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes for an easy meal on busy days.
How do I keep the meatloaf from falling apart?
Ensuring the right balance of moisture and binders such as eggs is crucial. Avoid overmixing the ingredients as it leads to a dense loaf. Additionally, allowing the baked meatloaf to rest before slicing helps it hold together better.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Certainly! This recipe is already dairy-free, but if you like added richness, choose non-dairy milk alternatives like almond milk when moistening the mixture. Ensure your Worcestershire sauce does not contain any dairy derivatives.
Old-Fashioned Meatloaf With Oatmeal
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- baking dish
- meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef (like 80/20 ground chuck)
- 3/4 cup oats (any brand will do)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them gently.
- Add in the chopped onion, minced garlic, oats, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and ketchup. Combine together until it's just starting to stick without overmixing.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased or lined baking dish, shaping it into a loaf roughly 2 inches thick. Optionally, spread a thin layer of ketchup on top.
- Bake uncovered in the oven for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F, checking with a meat thermometer. You can add more ketchup on top during the last few minutes for an appealing glaze.
- After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes before cutting into slices. Enjoy your meal!
