Meatloaf is a simple and delicious comfort food that can be made in a variety of ways. One way to make it healthier and more nutritious is to add oatmeal to the recipe. Oatmeal is a great source of fiber, protein, and other essential nutrients, and it also helps to bind the meatloaf together. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make meatloaf with oatmeal.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds ground beef
– 1 cup quick-cooking oatmeal
– 1 cup milk
– 2 eggs
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 cup ketchup or barbecue sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, oatmeal, milk, eggs, onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, thyme, basil, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well with your hands or a spoon until everything is evenly combined.

3. Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan, or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet.

4. Spread the ketchup or barbecue sauce on top of the meatloaf.

5. Bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

6. Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Summary:

– Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
– Mix ground beef, oatmeal, milk, eggs, onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, thyme, basil, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a large bowl.
– Transfer to a greased loaf pan or shape into a loaf on a baking sheet.
– Spread ketchup or barbecue sauce on top of the meatloaf.
– Bake for 1 hour or until internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
– Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.