Easy Meatloaf

I came across this recipe from the Milk Calendar several years ago and was originally titled "Double-Duty Meatloaf". It was so named because it can be served as burger or meatloaf and it is really satisfying and easy to make. For those nights when you are in a rush, you can make this the day before and just reheat and serve up a hearty dinner in no time. You can also cut it into slices and use them as burgers with bread. This is my usual dinner staple when we expect to run late for dinner during the weekdays. The original version calls for different spices but I prefer my own concoction and it really taste good!

Utensils need:-

1 large mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
9" loaf pan (metal or glass)
A wooden spoon
Some food safe gloves if you do not like touching the meat directly

Ingredients:-

1-1/2 lbs lean ground beef
3/4 cups quick cooking or minute oats
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon celery salt
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons onion powder ( not onion salt )
1/4 teaspoon fennel seeds
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
3/4 cups fresh milk ( you may use skim milk )
1/4 cup Heinz ketchup

Method:-

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F and prepare 1 loaf pan.  Glass loaf pan is preferred to metal. If using metal, you have to line with parchment paper.

2. Place all the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl and mix them. 

3. Add lightly beaten eggs, milk and ketchup and let stand for 5 minutes.


4. Then add the ground beef. Using a wooden spoon or your hand, gently blend meat in until well incorporated, do not over mix, otherwise loaf will be tough.


5. Transfer to the prepared loaf pan and pack it firmly. Flatten the center with the spoon so that loaf will rise evenly.


6. Cover loosely with aluminium foil and bake in preheated oven for one hour until meat juice is clear.


7. Drain off excess meat juice if serving immediately. If you wish to eat it the next day or two, you may leave the meat juice with the meat loaf so that it will not be too dry when you reheat.
Serve with your favorite salad and ketchup or spicy chilly sauce!

Enjoy! * Note: you can double the ingredients and make two loaves.