Surprise Meat Loaf Squares

Squares of moist ground beef and eggplant meat loaf are served with a garlic-seasoned stewed tomato sauce.

Recipe Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds ground beef
2 cups chopped eggplants
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 large egg
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup quick-cooking oats
2 1/4 teaspoons salt - divided use
1/2 teaspoon basil
1 (16-ounce) can stewed tomatoes
1 garlic clove, crushed
1 tablespoon cornstarch

Cooking Directions:

1. Combine ground beef, finely chopped eggplant, chopped onion, egg, milk, oats, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and basil. Spread the mixture into an ungreased 9-inch baking pan.
2. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C), uncovered, for 45 to 50 minutes; drain.
3. Mix together stewed tomatoes, crushed garlic clove, cornstarch, and 3/4 teaspoon salt in a small saucepan. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and boils. Boil and stir for 1 minute.
4. Cut the meat loaf into squares and top with the tomato sauce.

Makes 6 servings.