Mom's Greaseless Meatloaf

Mom's Greaseless Meatloaf Recipe - Delicious Ground Beef Meatloaf

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Mom's Greaseless Meatloaf is a classic comfort food recipe that has been passed down through generations. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional meatloaf, as it is cooked in a pressure cooker without any added fats or oils.

History

This recipe has been a family favorite for years, with each generation adding their own twist to make it their own. The use of a pressure cooker to cook the meatloaf without any added fats or oils was a game-changer, as it resulted in a moist and flavorful meatloaf without all the grease.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) of ground beef (I used 85% lean or better)
1 large egg
0.33 cup finely chopped onion
0.25 cup finely chopped bell pepper
1 tsp dried mustard
0.67 cup ketchup
1 cup (more or less) Quaker quick oats
a dash of salt and pepper

How to prepare

Take ground beef and place it in a large mixing bowl.
In a separate bowl, mix together ketchup, egg, salt, pepper, and dried mustard.
Combine the ground beef with the mixture.
It is best to knead the mixture by hand.
Once it is well mixed, add the onions and bell peppers.
Knead the mixture by hand again.
Then, gradually add oats while continuing to knead them into the mixture, until the combination is firm enough to form 1 or 2 small football shapes (about 6 – 8 inches long and around 3-4 inches round).
Place the footballs into a skillet on medium heat and lightly brown them on the top and bottom (turning carefully as needed, making sure not to burn them).
Once browned, remove the footballs from the skillet and place them into a pressure cooker with a cooking grate at the bottom.
Add enough water to the pressure cooker to cover the grate by about 0.5 inch.
A little bit of ketchup may be spread along the top of the meat.
Use the pressure cooker according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Once the pressure cap begins to rock, lower the heat to a level where the rocker rocks slowly.
Allow the rocker to continue for 25 – 30 minutes.
Remove from heat and let it cool enough to safely remove the lid.
You will have the best meatloaf without all the grease of oven-baked meatloaf.

Variations

Add in some Worcestershire sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
Mix in some shredded cheese for a cheesy twist.
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to knead the meat mixture well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

- Browning the meatloaf in a skillet before pressure cooking adds a nice crust and flavor to the meat.

- Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for your pressure cooker to ensure safe and effective cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mom's Greaseless Meatloaf with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic comfort food meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking technique for this recipe is using a pressure cooker to cook the meatloaf without any added fats or oils. This results in a moist and flavorful meatloaf without all the grease.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking by swapping out ingredients. You can use different vegetables, spices, or even ground meats to make it your own.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This is a great make-ahead option for busy weeknights.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the meatloaf and arrange it on a platter with a drizzle of ketchup on top for a classic presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Mom's Greaseless Meatloaf pairs well with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mom's Greaseless Meatloaf contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Mom's Greaseless Meatloaf contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This recipe is called "greaseless" for a reason - there are minimal fats in this meatloaf recipe, making it a healthier option for those watching their fat intake.

Proteins

Each serving of Mom's Greaseless Meatloaf contains approximately 25 grams of protein, making it a great source of this essential nutrient.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is packed with essential vitamins and minerals from the ground beef, onions, and bell peppers. These ingredients provide a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and oats, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Mom's Greaseless Meatloaf is a well-balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, while being lower in fats and carbohydrates.

Summary

Mom's Greaseless Meatloaf is a classic comfort food recipe that is healthier than traditional meatloaf recipes. With minimal fats and oils, this recipe is perfect for those looking for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal with your family and friends!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Mom's Greaseless Meatloaf. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I was visiting my dear friend Mary for our weekly tea and recipe exchange. Mary was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and I always looked forward to trying out her latest creations.

As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping on fragrant herbal tea, Mary suddenly reached for a worn, stained recipe card tucked away in a drawer. With a mischievous smile, she handed it to me and said, "You have to try this meatloaf recipe. It's my mother's secret recipe, and it's absolutely divine."

I eagerly took the recipe card and read through the ingredients and instructions. What caught my eye was the lack of any added fats or oils in the meatloaf. It was a greaseless meatloaf, a concept that was completely foreign to me. I had always used a generous amount of butter or oil in my meatloaf recipes, so I was intrigued by the idea of a healthier alternative.

Mary noticed my curiosity and explained that her mother was a nutrition-conscious cook who believed in using natural ingredients and cooking methods. She assured me that despite the lack of grease, the meatloaf was incredibly flavorful and moist.

I decided to give the recipe a try, following Mary's mother's detailed instructions to the letter. I mixed together lean ground beef, breadcrumbs, onions, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and a special blend of herbs and spices. Instead of shaping the meat mixture into a traditional loaf and baking it in a greased pan, I formed it into individual meatballs and placed them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allowed any excess fat to drip away during cooking, resulting in a greaseless meatloaf.

As the meatballs baked in the oven, the kitchen filled with a tantalizing aroma that made my mouth water. I couldn't wait to taste the final result. When the timer chimed and I pulled the meatballs out of the oven, I was met with a sight that made my heart sing. The meatballs were perfectly browned and juicy, with no greasy residue in sight.

I eagerly served the greaseless meatloaf to my family that evening, along with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and crisp green beans. With every bite, we were transported to comfort food heaven. The meatloaf was incredibly tender and flavorful, with a rich umami taste that lingered on the palate. My family couldn't believe that it was greaseless – it tasted just as indulgent as any traditional meatloaf we had ever had.

From that day on, Mom's Greaseless Meatloaf became a staple in our household. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even for friends who were looking for a healthier alternative to classic comfort food. Every time I served it, I felt a sense of pride and joy knowing that I was carrying on Mary's mother's legacy of wholesome, delicious cooking.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with countless friends and family members who were equally impressed by its simplicity and flavor. Some even asked for copies of the recipe card, which had become worn and stained from years of use. I always made sure to pass along the story of how I learned to make Mom's Greaseless Meatloaf from Mary, a dear friend whose culinary wisdom had enriched my life in more ways than one.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that fateful day in Mary's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the bonds forged over shared meals and cherished recipes. Mom's Greaseless Meatloaf will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of good food to bring people together and create lasting memories. And so, I continue to cook and share this beloved recipe, honoring the traditions and teachings of those who came before me.