Down Home Southern Meat Loaf

After an extremely busy week dealing with errands and kids, I finally had time to make something decent for dinner. Every once in a while, I really crave meatloaf. Yeah, not that exciting, I know! But after trying so many different versions over the years, I finally found one that answers my cravings. It's moist, flavorful, and easy to make, and Southern to boot. And the topping is out of this world. I often make this in the morning and pop it in the oven an hour before dinner. Great for when you want a down home meal that leaves you happy and satisfied!

Favorite Meat Loaf

1 pound ground beef

1 1/4 teaspoons salt

1/4 teaspoons ground black pepper

1/2 cup finely chopped onion

1 egg, lightly beaten

8 ozs. canned diced tomatoes, with the juice

1/2 cup quick-cooking oats

Preheat oven 375 degrees. Mix all ingredients well and place in loaf pan or glass baking dish (shape into loaf if using baking dish). Pour topping over top of loaf.

Topping

2/3 cup ketchup

4 tablespoons brown sugar

2 tablespoons prepared mustard

Mix ingredients for topping and spread on loaf. Bake for 1 hour.

Adapted from The Lady & Sons Savannah Country Cookbook by Paula H. Deen.

“It's about how to make the best meat loaf or fried chicken or macaroni and cheese. It's about brilliant simple cooking, really."
-Tyler Florence