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Meatloaf Recipe with Oatmeal

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
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
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.