Ingredients

1 1/2 to 2 pounds ground beef

1 cup quick-cooking oats (uncooked)

1/2 cup green onions, chopped

1/3 cup green pepper, chopped

1/2 cup chopped celery

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional)

Several drops hot sauce

2 teaspoons minced garlic

1 teaspoon salt or to taste

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 8-ounce can tomato sauce, divided

1 egg

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup honey

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, oats, green onions, green pepper, celery, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke (if using), hot sauce, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, half of the tomato sauce (4 ounces), egg, and 1 tablespoon brown sugar. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 2: Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a casserole dish. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.

Step 3: While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the sauce by whisking together the remaining 4 ounces of tomato sauce, 1/4 cup brown sugar, honey, and 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard in a bowl.

Step 4: After 30 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and pour the prepared sauce evenly over the top.

Step 5: Increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 35 minutes, or until fully cooked and the sauce is bubbly.

Step 6: Let the meatloaf rest a few minutes before slicing. Serve with any leftover sauce spooned over individual slices.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, you can add a splash of milk or a tablespoon of ketchup to the meat mixture.

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

If you don’t have liquid smoke, simply omit it; the Worcestershire sauce will provide depth of flavor.

Add finely diced carrots or mushrooms for added veggies and texture.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf the day before, keeping it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve for best texture and flavor.

What temperature should meatloaf be cooked to?

Meatloaf should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is safe to eat and perfectly cooked through.