March is Ag Month

After lunch, more left for later in the week!

March has been declared Kansas Agricultural Month. Here, in this family, on this ranch, every day is Ag Day! Agriculture is still our state's largest economic driver and a strong tradition throughout the state. Beef is our main agriculture product, and that of many ranchers in Kansas. Kansas has 6.1 million head of cattle (compared to 2.9 million people). Beef is a nutritious choice, providing a high quality protein (helps preserve and build muscle), zinc (healthy immune system), iron (helps the body use oxygen), and many other nutrients. Beef is also an economic choice. Ground beef is one of my go-to's for a variety of recipes. It can be fancy - bacon wrapped patties or lasagna, or simple - sloppy joes or meatloaf. Ground beef adapts well to any cuisine, whether you're hungry for Italian, Mexican, or Asian. 
In honor of Ag and Beef, and Rancher's birthday today, I'm sharing our favorite meat loaf recipe. Easy and satisfying. We often have this on Mondays to also have leftovers and meatloaf sandwiches later in the week. 

Meatloaf

2 pounds ground beef

2 eggs
1 cup oats (quick cooking)

1 tablespoon dehydrated minced onion

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1 can (6 oz) tomato sauce

Mix ingredients together, form into loaf pan and top with garnishes of catsup and french-fried onion rings. Bake for 1 hour at 350 degrees. Let set 10 minutes before cutting. 

For a 'fancy' meat loaf, I put one-half of the meat mixture in the loaf pan, spread sour cream and sliced mushrooms over the meat, and top with the other half of the meat mixture. 

The next best thing about Meatloaf Monday, is Sandwich Tuesday! A slice of cold meatloaf fits a sandwich just right, add mustard and pretzels for my favorite lunch.