Diner meatloaf

Introduction

History

Meatloaf has been a staple in American cuisine for decades. It became popular during the Great Depression as a way to stretch ground meat further. Diner meatloaf, in particular, is a variation that is often found on the menus of diners and family restaurants across the country.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to let the oats and milk mixture sit for 10 minutes before adding the other ingredients. This will help the oats absorb the liquid and create a moist meatloaf.

- Use lean ground beef to keep the meatloaf from becoming too greasy.

- Don't overmix the ingredients, as this can make the meatloaf tough. Mix just until everything is combined.

Serving Suggestions

Serve diner meatloaf with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic comfort food meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the meatloaf in the oven ensures that it cooks evenly and retains its shape.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have quick-cook oats, you can use breadcrumbs instead.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the meatloaf and arrange it on a platter with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Diner meatloaf pairs well with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of diner meatloaf contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of diner meatloaf contains approximately 12 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of diner meatloaf contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of diner meatloaf contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Diner meatloaf is a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (milk) and eggs.

Summary

Diner meatloaf is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Diner meatloaf is a classic comfort food dish that is easy to make and perfect for a cozy family dinner. With a mix of oats, ground beef, and seasonings, this meatloaf is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Diner meatloaf. The year was 1952 and I was just a young girl of sixteen, helping out in the kitchen of a bustling diner in my small town. It was a hot summer day, and the smell of sizzling bacon and fresh coffee filled the air. I was busy washing dishes when I overheard the head cook, Old Mr. Johnson, talking to one of the waitresses about a new recipe he had come across.

"It's a meatloaf recipe from a diner in the big city," he said excitedly. "They say it's the best meatloaf they've ever tasted!"

I couldn't help but be intrigued. I had never heard of meatloaf before, let alone tasted it. Mr. Johnson noticed my interest and beckoned me over.

"Come here, girl," he said gruffly. "I need some help with this recipe. You seem like a smart one."

I eagerly joined him at the counter, watching as he laid out the ingredients before me. Ground beef, onions, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce - it was like nothing I had ever seen before. Mr. Johnson explained each step of the recipe to me, his rough hands deftly mixing the ingredients together.

"Meatloaf is a comfort food," he explained. "It's hearty and filling, perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. And this recipe is the best of the best, mark my words."

As we worked together to prepare the meatloaf, Mr. Johnson shared stories of his own childhood, growing up in a small town much like ours. He spoke of family gatherings and shared meals, of laughter and love. I listened intently, soaking up every word as if it were a precious gift.

When the meatloaf was finally ready, Mr. Johnson slid it into the oven with a satisfied smile. The diner filled with the rich, savory aroma of baking meat, and my stomach growled in anticipation. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

As we sat down to eat, Mr. Johnson served me a thick slice of meatloaf with a generous dollop of mashed potatoes and gravy. I took a bite, savoring the warm, savory flavors that filled my mouth. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before - a perfect blend of meat, spices, and love.

From that day on, I was hooked. I begged Mr. Johnson to teach me more recipes, to share his culinary wisdom with me. He agreed, and over the years, I learned to make all the diner classics - from fluffy pancakes to juicy burgers to creamy milkshakes.

But it was the meatloaf that held a special place in my heart. It became my signature dish, the one I would make for family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions. Each time I made it, I would think of Mr. Johnson and our days in the diner, and I would smile.

Now, all these years later, I am the one sharing the recipe with my own family. My grandchildren gather around the table, eager for a taste of my famous meatloaf. I watch them as they take their first bites, their faces lighting up with delight.

And as I sit back and watch them eat, I can't help but feel a sense of pride. I may not have invented the recipe, but I have made it my own. I have taken something old and cherished and passed it down through the generations, just like Mr. Johnson did for me all those years ago.

I may not be a fancy chef or a culinary genius, but I am a cook. And that, to me, is the greatest gift of all. The gift of sharing good food, good company, and good memories. And for that, I will always be grateful.

Categories

| American Recipes | Bacon Recipes | Beef Recipes | Low-calorie Recipes | Oats Recipes | Sage Recipes |

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