Meatloaf, the delectable family favorite that is authentically American and timeless, offers a rich, satisfying meal any day of the week. This ground beef meatloaf recipe, enhanced with oats and a few simple ingredients, delivers a flavorful dish that’s sure to please. Seasoned spices come together to create a well-balanced, savory loaf with a zesty topping, making it a special dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
1 1/4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
Adds texture and helps bind the meatloaf.
1/4 cup milk
Softens the oats, ensuring they mix well into the meatloaf.
1 lb ground beef
The main ingredient, rich in flavor.
2 large eggs, beaten
Helps bind the ingredients together.
1 package dry onion soup mix
Adds rich, savory flavor with minimal effort.
1 clove garlic, minced
Adds a hint of spice.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Enriches the beef with a meaty umami taste.
3 tablespoons ketchup
Adds moisture and a slight sweetness that contrasts with the savory flavors.
For the Topping:
1/4 cup ketchup
The base ingredient for a zesty finish.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Enhances the flavor profile of the topping.
1 teaspoon yellow mustard
Adds a punchy sourness to the top.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare The Meatloaf Mixture
Soak The Oats:
In a large mixing bowl, place the old-fashioned rolled oats. Pour the milk over them and stir well until the oats are fully coated. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to soften and absorb the liquid. This ensures the oats integrate smoothly into the meatloaf without making it too dry or doughy.
Combine Ingredients:
Once the oats have softened, add the ground beef, beaten eggs, dry onion soup mix, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Use your hands to mix everything together until evenly combined. This ensures the loaf will hold together well during cooking.
Step 2: Shape And Bake
Shape The Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture to an oiled 9×9 inch baking dish. Shape it into a loaf about 1 ¾ inches thick. This promotes even baking, ensuring the meatloaf cooks uniformly.
First Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes to allow the meatloaf to set.
Step 3: Add The Topping
Prepare The Topping:
While the meatloaf is baking, mix together the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard in a small bowl. This creates the zesty topping that will complement the savory loaf.
Apply The Topping:
After the initial 30 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Brush the prepared topping thinly across the surface and sides of the meatloaf.
Final Bake:
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the topping is set and the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 4: Rest And Serve
Rest the Meatloaf:
Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for at least 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender slices.
Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the meatloaf and serve it alongside your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a garden salad. The comforting flavors and tender texture make this a meal everyone will enjoy.
Variations And Tips
Cheese Lover’s Twist:
Add a layer of cheddar or mozzarella cheese shavings to the center of the loaf for a melty surprise in every slice.
Vegetable Boost:
Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach leaves for added nutrition and flavor.
Gluten-Free Option:
Substitute the oats with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
Spicy Kick:
Add a little cayenne powder or a few dashes of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a bit of heat.
Serving Ideas
For a lighter meal, pair this meatloaf with a fresh vegetable salad or roasted vegetables. Classic side dishes like mashed potatoes and steamed green beans also complement the flavors perfectly. Leftover meatloaf makes fantastic sandwiches—pile slices onto toasted buns with mayo, tomato slices, and lettuce for a delicious lunch.
Conclusion
This homemade meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food—simple to make, full of flavor, and incredibly satisfying. The combination of seasoned ground beef, savory onion soup mix, and a zesty topping creates a dish that’s both hearty and delicious. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it to guests, this meatloaf is sure to please. Roll up your sleeves, get your hands into the mix, and enjoy a classic meal that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat!