What makes Dolly’s Old-Fashioned Tennessee Meatloaf different?

Dolly’s Old-Fashioned Tennessee Meatloaf stands out for its simple, homestyle combination of ground beef, oats, egg, onion, green bell pepper, and tomato. The oats work as a binder while the vegetables contribute flavor and moisture. The result is a rustic Southern-style meatloaf rather than an overly complicated version packed with specialty ingredients.

How do I keep Tennessee meatloaf moist?

Avoid overmixing the ground beef because excessive handling can create a dense texture. Ingredients such as tomato, onion, and bell pepper also contribute moisture to Dolly’s Old-Fashioned Tennessee Meatloaf. Cook the loaf until its center reaches the safe temperature of 160°F rather than baking it significantly longer than necessary. Rest it briefly after cooking so the juices have time to redistribute before slicing.

Can I make Dolly’s Old-Fashioned Tennessee Meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes. You can prepare ingredients such as the chopped vegetables in advance and keep them refrigerated until you're ready to assemble the meatloaf. Cooked Dolly’s Old-Fashioned Tennessee Meatloaf is also convenient for meal prep. Refrigerate leftovers promptly in an airtight container and use them within three to four days. Reheat individual slices until thoroughly heated before serving.

Dolly’s Old-Fashioned Tennessee Meatloaf: Easy Southern Comfort

Name: Dolly’s Old-Fashioned Tennessee Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped; 1 medium tomato, chopped; 1 cup rolled oats; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Description

Dolly’s Old-Fashioned Tennessee Meatloaf is a hearty Southern comfort-food recipe made with ground beef, oats, fresh tomato, onion, green bell pepper, egg, and simple seasonings. It bakes into a tender, flavorful meatloaf that is perfect for serving with mashed potatoes and green beans.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 medium tomato, chopped
1 cup rolled oats
1 large egg
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly prepare a loaf pan or baking dish.
Place the ground beef in a large mixing bowl.
Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, tomato, rolled oats, egg, salt, and black pepper.
Gently mix the ingredients with clean hands until evenly combined. Avoid overmixing, which can make the finished meatloaf dense.
Shape the mixture into an even loaf and place it in the prepared baking dish.
Bake for approximately 60 to 75 minutes, or until the center of the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Slice and serve warm with mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, or your favorite Southern side dishes.

Notes

Mix the meatloaf gently and only until the ingredients are combined to help maintain a tender texture.
Finely chop the vegetables so they cook evenly and the finished meatloaf slices cleanly.
Use an instant-read thermometer to confirm that the center reaches 160°F (71°C).
Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing so the juices can redistribute.
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Leftover meatloaf is excellent for sandwiches, meal prep, or reheating for an easy lunch.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of meatloaf)
Calories: 390
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 470mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 29g
Cholesterol: 120mg