Meatloaf Recipe with Oatmeal (Moist & Easy)

Classic Meatloaf Recipe with Oatmeal That’s Juicy and Tender

A dependable Meatloaf Recipe with Oatmeal focuses on moisture and structure. Oats replace breadcrumbs here, binding the meat while keeping it soft and tender. Mixing the meat gently (not pressing it too tightly) makes a big difference. Too much handling can make the loaf dense.

This recipe helps you make a hearty, balanced meatloaf that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or next-day sandwiches.

Difficulty: Easy

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Dinner, Main Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 340

Ingredients Method Video Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef 85% lean recommended
• ¾ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• ½ cup of milk
• 1 small onion finely diced
• 1 large egg lightly beaten
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder

For the glaze:

• ⅓ cup of ketchup
• 1 TBSP brown sugar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard optional

Method

 

Preheat and prepare a pan

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Soak the oats

1. In a small bowl, combine the oats and milk. Let them sit for 5 minutes to soften. This helps bind the mixture and adds moisture.

Mix the meatloaf

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soaked oats, onion, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix gently with your hands or a fork until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Shape and glaze

1. Form the mixture into a loaf and place it in the pan. In a separate bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard for the glaze. Spread half of it evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Bake

1. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove from the oven, brush with the remaining glaze, and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Rest and serve

1. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy and easy to cut.

Video

Notes

Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats give the best texture; avoid instant oats.

Meat choice: 85% lean beef gives flavor without drying out.

Mixing tip: Mix only until ingredients come together. Overmixing makes it tough.

Rest: Let it rest before slicing to keep the juices inside.

Leftovers: Great for sandwiches or reheated with a bit of broth.

Tips & Tricks

• Make ahead: Prepare and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Double batch: Freeze one loaf raw or cooked for later use.
• Healthier version: Use ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork.
• Add veggies: Finely grated carrots or zucchini add moisture and nutrients.
• Extra glaze: For a sweeter top, add a touch more brown sugar to the glaze.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic dinner: Pair with mashed potatoes and green beans.
• Comfort meal: Serve with macaroni and cheese or roasted carrots.
• Next-day idea: Slice leftovers and serve on toasted bread with ketchup or BBQ sauce.
• Balanced plate: Add a side salad for freshness.
• Family style: Slice into thick pieces and serve directly from the pan.

Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: ~340
• Protein: 27 g
• Carbs: 17 g
• Fat: 17 g
• Fiber: 1 g