Meatloaf and a Toad

Growing up my Mom always encouraged me to help her cook so that one day I would be able to cook for my family. I think she secretly knew that I'd marry a man who loved to eat! She made home cooked meals almost every night and I enjoyed cooking with her. One of my favorites growing up (it gets a bad rep, but it's sooo good!) is meatloaf. To me it is like a giant hamburger without the bun, and more flavorful!

Meatloaf right before it went in the oven!

Here is my Mom's meatloaf recipe:

Preheat oven to 350. Cook for 45 minutes.

• 1 pound of lean ground beef
• Half an onion, chopped
• 1 tbs of Worcestershire sauce
• 1 1/2 cup of oats
• 3/4 cup of ketchup
• 1 egg
• garlic salt
• pepper
• seasoning salt
• any other seasoning you want!

Usually I use more onion, more or less oats, more or less ketchup, and I always guess on the seasoning. Just remember to not make it too salty!

Mix all the ingredients together with your hands...yes I said with your hands! Squish and squash the meat together until everything is thoroughly blended.

I use a cast iron skillet, but a regular Pyrex baking dish would work. Form a "meat-loaf" in the pan.

My Mom always made a "canal" with the side of her hand down the middle of the "loaf." Then she drizzled ketchup all over the top.

Put it in the oven and you've got one delicious meal coming right up!

Chris and I had this dish last night with home style mac and cheese and veggies. Being that there is only two of us, we will be having left overs tonight!

After we ate Chris went outside to give the pups food and water. He came back inside with this:

I found a smaller one the day before when I was outside watering the flowers.

Just adorable little creatures.

So you have a great meatloaf recipe? Seen any cute toads lately?!

Happy Wednesday!