Classic Meatloaf with Oatmeal

Why Oatmeal is the Perfect Binder for Meatloaf

Oatmeal might sound unconventional at first, but it’s a fantastic ingredient to keep your meatloaf moist and tender. Unlike breadcrumbs, which can dry out the meat, oatmeal absorbs the flavors and moisture while adding a slight chewiness that gives the meatloaf great texture. Plus, it’s a wholesome and nutritious option, which makes it a winner in my book.

Ingredients List

To make this classic meatloaf with oatmeal, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp ketchup (plus extra for topping)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)

Timing

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 60 minutes
• Total time: 75 minutes

Step-by-Step Recipe for Classic Meatloaf with Oatmeal

Step 1- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2- Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, oats, egg, milk, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Use your hands to gently mix everything together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

Step 3- Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan or shape it by hand on a lined baking sheet.

Step 4- Add the topping: Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf for added flavor and color.

Step 5- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 6- Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Mixing and Shaping the Perfect Meatloaf

1- Don’t overmix: This is key. Mixing too much can cause the meatloaf to become dense. Gently combine everything until just mixed.

2- Shape it evenly: Whether you’re using a loaf pan or shaping it by hand, ensure it’s evenly shaped so it cooks uniformly.

3- Keep it moist: If you notice the top browning too quickly, cover it with foil for the first half of the baking time.

Best Toppings for a Classic Meatloaf with Oatmeal

Ketchup is a traditional topping, but you can switch things up by using barbecue sauce, tomato sauce, or even a glaze made with brown sugar and mustard. My personal favorite is a blend of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce for a tangy twist.

How Long to Bake Meatloaf for the Best Results

For a 1 ½ lb meatloaf, bake at 350°F for about 1 hour. The internal temperature should reach 160°F before you take it out of the oven. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through.

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Classic Meatloaf

Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad. If you’re feeling indulgent, go for macaroni and cheese on the side. Trust me, your family will love it.

Variations: Gluten-Free or Low-Carb Oatmeal Meatloaf

To make this recipe gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats. For a low-carb version, you can replace the oats with almond flour or crushed pork rinds. The texture will be slightly different, but it’ll still be delicious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Meatloaf

1- Overmixing the meat: It can make the meatloaf tough and chewy.

2- Not letting it rest: This step helps the juices redistribute, making the meatloaf tender.

3- Skipping the topping: Adding a sauce on top enhances the flavor and keeps the meatloaf moist.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Meatloaf with Oatmeal

Leftover meatloaf stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and heat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but the oven keeps the texture better.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general idea of the nutritional content per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g

Conclusion

Classic Meatloaf with Oatmeal is a cozy, satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. It’s easy to prepare, and with the oatmeal twist, you get a tender and wholesome meatloaf every time. Give it a try.