Prize Winning Meatloaf from Quaker Oats

stands up to the test of time. When something becomes a classic, there’s a good reason. I’ve made this recipe often for the last 45 years; for multiple reasons, one is TASTE…it always turns out good. Another is when I don’t have breadcrumbs 😀 also it’s EASY & has stuck in my memory. Actually I’ve still used this recipe when I didn’t have Oats & i substituted it with breadcrumbs.

This is my favorite version. There are lots I like yet I still go back to this one. THAT’S our family’s meatloaf.

Yes, a long time, however…not as long as Quaker 😀

1877; 140 years ago (as Quaker Mill Company)

The Quaker Oats standing “Quaker Man” logo c.1900

Let me say first though that I don’t use a loaf pan. I did back in the day 😀 now I use a sheet pan with parchment paper on it or nonstick foil and just shape it into a loaf. I used ketchup in meat mix instead of tomato sauce. We ALWAYS put ketchup on top of meatloaf too, before putting it in oven. DELICIOUS.

Ingredients

• 1-1/2 Pounds 90% lean ground beef
• 1 Cup tomato juice or tomato sauce
• 3/4 Cup Quaker® Oats (quick or old fashioned, uncooked)
• 1 egg or 2 egg whites, lightly beaten
• 1/4 Cup chopped onion
• 1/2 Teaspoon salt (optional)
• 1/4 Teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Instructions

Heat oven to 350°F. In large bowl, combine all ingredients, mixing lightly but thoroughly. Press into 8 x 4-inch loaf pan. Bake 1 hour to medium doneness (160°F internal temperature). Meatloaf should not be pink in center and the juices should show no pink color. Let stand 5 minutes; drain off any juices before slicing.

Serving Tips: Customize meatloaf by adding one of the following to meatloaf ingredients:
1) 1/2 cup frozen (thawed) or canned (drained) corn;
2) 1/2 cup chopped green or red bell pepper;
3) One 2-1/2-ounce jar sliced mushrooms, drained;
4) 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; or
5) Two tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley or cilantro. Sprinkle top of baked meatloaf with 1 cup shredded cheese. Return to oven for 3 minutes to melt cheese. Spoon heated prepared spaghetti sauce, pizza sauce, barbecue sauce or salsa over meatloaf before serving.

Or on nonstick foil 🤭

I suppose you can tell I just use this recipe for basic reminder of the ratio of ingredients.