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–+ servings
Meatloaf from Ms. Mapp
This vintage meatloaf recipe, penned by Ms. Mapp, blends hearty, comforting ingredients into a classic loaf that’s both easy and economical. Quick oats replace traditional breadcrumbs for a tender texture, while a sweet-savory combo of brown sugar, tomato juice, and ketchup or barbecue sauce forms a flavorful glaze. It's the kind of home-style dish that graced mid-century dinner tables, served with mashed potatoes or green beans. This version leans slightly sweet, giving it a nostalgic flavor that's stood the test of time.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 365 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ lbs ground beef
  • ¾ cup quick cooking oats
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup onion (chopped )
  • 1 cup tomato juice
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup ketchup ( or barbecue sauce)
  • salt (to taste)
  • pepper (to taste)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Mix Ingredients

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, quick oats, brown sugar, chopped onion, tomato juice, eggs, and salt and pepper.
  • Mix thoroughly until evenly blended.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

  • Press the meat mixture into a greased loaf pan.
  • Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Finish Baking

  • Remove pan from oven. Pour ketchup or barbecue sauce evenly over the top.
  • Return to oven and bake an additional 30 minutes, or until fully cooked through.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

  • Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
  • Serve warm.

Tips

  • Add chopped bell pepper for more texture and flavor.
  • Substitute barbecue sauce entirely for a smokier flavor profile.
  • Mix half ground beef and half ground pork for a richer result.
  • Top with additional ketchup, barbecue sauce, or tomato glaze before baking.
  • Use rolled oats instead of quick oats for a slightly chewier texture.
  • Add Worcestershire sauce for added depth.
  • Swap tomato juice for tomato sauce if you prefer a thicker mixture.
  • Mix in grated carrot or zucchini to add moisture and vegetables.
  • Let the meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
  • Make into mini loaves for faster baking time (~25 to 30 minutes).

Nutrition

Calories: 365kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 21gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.6gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 690mgPotassium: 520mgFiber: 2gSugar: 17gVitamin A: 620IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 55mgIron: 2.3mg
Keyword classic recipes, comfort food, easy dinner, ground beef, homemade, meatloaf, vintage recipe
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