Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Oatmeal

This Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Oatmeal is a classic, hearty dish made with simple pantry staples. The addition of oats creates a moist and tender texture while keeping the meatloaf together without the need for breadcrumbs. Whether you’re searching for meatloaf recipes with oatmeal or a meatloaf recipe using oatmeal, this timeless dish is packed with rich, savory flavors and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful – The oats absorb moisture, ensuring a tender and juicy meatloaf every time.
• Easy and Budget-Friendly – Simple ingredients like oats, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce make this an affordable and delicious family meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – This meatloaf made with oatmeal reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• ½ cup diced onion
• 2 eggs
• ¾ cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, oats, diced onion, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
• Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.

3. Shape the Loaf

• Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan.
• Shape it into a loaf, making sure it is evenly packed but not overly compressed.

4. Prepare the Glaze

• In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
• Spread half of the glaze evenly over the meatloaf.

5. Bake the Meatloaf

• Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 45 minutes.
• Remove from the oven, spread the remaining glaze over the top, and return to bake for another 15 minutes (total bake time: 1 hour).

6. Rest and Serve

• Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
• Serve warm with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a comforting, homemade meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free Meatloaf – Use certified gluten-free oats to make this a meatloaf recipe with oatmeal that’s gluten-free.
• Spicy Version – Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
• Cheesy Meatloaf – Mix in ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese for extra flavor.
• BBQ Meatloaf – Substitute the ketchup in the glaze with BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.
• Smaller Batch – For a meatloaf recipe using 1 lb ground beef, simply halve the ingredients and adjust the baking time to about 40 minutes.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing – Wrap the cooked meatloaf in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating – Warm slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Why use oatmeal instead of breadcrumbs in meatloaf?

Oatmeal absorbs moisture and helps bind the ingredients while keeping the meatloaf tender. It’s also a great alternative for those avoiding breadcrumbs.

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Yes, but old-fashioned oats provide better texture. Quick oats can be used if you prefer a finer consistency.

How do I prevent my meatloaf from falling apart?

Make sure to mix the ingredients well and let the meatloaf rest before slicing to keep it intact.

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I serve with meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, mac and cheese, or a simple green salad pair well with this dish.

Can I cook this meatloaf on a baking sheet instead of a loaf pan?

Yes! Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

How do I know when my meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should read 160°F (71°C) when fully cooked.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Substitute ground turkey for a leaner meatloaf using oatmeal.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just use two loaf pans or shape a larger loaf on a baking sheet and adjust the cooking time.

How do I make meatloaf juicier?

Using 80/20 ground beef, eggs, and Worcestershire sauce ensures a moist meatloaf. Avoid overmixing, which can make it dry.

Conclusion

This Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Oatmeal is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a meatloaf recipe with oatmeal, a meatloaf recipe using 1 lb ground beef, or a hearty family meal, this recipe delivers every time. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious, homemade dinner!