Gluten intolerance and celiac disease have shed light on the importance of gluten-free diets. While embracing such dietary restrictions can seem daunting at first, particularly when it comes to comfort food classics, innovations in cooking have made it easier to enjoy all your favorite dishes without the gluten. One such beloved recipe that has received a gluten-free makeover is meatloaf. Here’s an enticing recipe for Mom’s Best Gluten-Free Meatloaf with Oats that is sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs ground beef (preferably lean)

– 1 cup gluten-free oats

– 1 small onion, finely chopped

– 2 eggs

– 1/2 cup ketchup, plus more for topping

– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (ensure it’s gluten-free)

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

– Optional: fresh herbs like parsley or thyme

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and lightly grease a loaf pan.

2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with the gluten-free oats. Oats are an excellent alternative to breadcrumbs in meatloaf as they help to hold the mixture together and add a heartiness that is both satisfying and wholesome.

3. To this, add in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic for flavor depth.

4. Next, crack in the eggs which will act as a binder for your meatloaf.

5. Pour in the ketchup; its sweetness will balance out the savory elements of this dish brilliantly.

6. Add the Worcestershire sauce for that unmistakable tangy profile—just ensure that it is indeed gluten-free.

7. Season your mixture with salt and ground black pepper to taste. For those who wish to enhance their meatloaf further, this would be the perfect time to incorporate any optional fresh herbs you like.

8. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix all these ingredients together until well combined, being careful not to overwork it as this could lead to a denser meatloaf.

9. Transfer your meatloaf mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf within the pan.

10. If desired, spread a thin layer of additional ketchup across the top of your meatloaf before placing it into the oven. This extra layer will caramelize beautifully and provide a mouthwatering glaze.

11. Bake your meatloaf for approximately one hour or until done. The internal temperature should read 160°F (71°C) when inserted into the center of the loaf.

12. Once cooked, remove from oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This rest time allows juices to redistribute ensuring that every slice is moist and delicious.

This modern twist on traditional meatloaf not only caters to those with gluten sensitivities but also opens up a new realm of culinary possibilities for home cooks everywhere seeking healthier versions of their favorite comfort foods without compromising on taste or texture.

With Mom’s Best Gluten-Free Meatloaf with Oats you can enjoy every bite assured that you’re not missing out on any of the flavors you’ve come to love—it’s just simply good home cooking made suitable for everyone at your dinner table.