Whether you need a delicious and hearty, as well as very healthy, recipe for meatloaf, find it here within this Oatmeal Meatloaf Recipe. This combination of ground meat, oatmeal with flavorful seasonings, makes preparation so easy while being deeply satisfying.
Why oatmeal meatloaf over the classic meatloaf? It’s affordable, high in protein, and packed with fiber, too-what’s more, it can be easily tailored to suit different diets. Unlike breadcrumbs, oatmeal will help lock moisture inside, which will keep your meatloaf juicy and tender.
Be it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a Sunday cozy-up, this will be your next favorite in no time. Continue reading for all the juicy details on how to make the best oatmeal meatloaf ever!
Why Use Oatmeal in Meatloaf?
1. Nutritional Benefits of Oatmeal
It is not breakfast! Oatmeal is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, great for better digestion and heart health. Adding oatmeal to a meatloaf brings nutritional balance without overpowering the classic taste of a great meatloaf.
2. Acts as a Binder
Just like breadcrumbs, oatmeal helps hold the meat mixture together. When mixed with eggs and seasonings, oatmeal absorbs moisture and prevents the meatloaf from falling apart.
3. A Healthier Alternative to Breadcrumbs
Unlike breadcrumbs, which can be high in processed ingredients, oatmeal is a whole grain that provides complex carbohydrates and sustained energy. It’s a great option for those looking to cut back on refined carbs.
Ingredients Needed for Oatmeal Meatloaf
To make this simple and hearty oatmeal meatloaf, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 cup rolled oats (quick oats also work)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ cup milk (or broth for a dairy-free option)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (or barbecue sauce)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
- ¼ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- ½ cup finely chopped mushrooms or bell peppers
- 1 tablespoon mustard for a tangy kick
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce for spice lovers
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Oatmeal Meatloaf
Step 1: Prepping the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Finely chop the onions and garlic.
Step 2: Mixing the Meatloaf
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, oats, onions, garlic, egg, and milk.
- Add in ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
- Mix everything together gently until just combined. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
Step 3: Shaping and Baking
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
- Spread a thin layer of ketchup or barbecue sauce on top for added flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 4: Resting and Serving
- Take out from oven and set aside for 10 minutes before slicing, allowing the moisture to lock in. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes!
Best Tips for a Moist and Flavorful Meatloaf
1. Use the Right Meat Blend
For the juiciest meatloaf, use a blend of 80/20 ground beef. If using turkey, add a bit of oil or shredded veggies to prevent dryness.
2. Soak the Oatmeal First
Soaking oats in milk or broth before adding them to the meat mixture ensures they blend well and add moisture.
3. Don’t Overmix the Ingredients
Overmixing will make your meatloaf dense and dry. Stir just enough to combine everything evenly.
Variations of Oatmeal Meatloaf
One of the best things about oatmeal meatloaf is how versatile it is! You can easily customize it based on your dietary preferences or spice it up to create new flavors.
1. Turkey Oatmeal Meatloaf
If you’re looking for a leaner option, swap out ground beef for ground turkey. Since turkey has less fat, consider adding an extra egg or a tablespoon of olive oil to keep the meatloaf moist.
2. Vegan or Vegetarian Oatmeal Meatloaf
For a plant-based version, replace meat with lentils, chickpeas, or black beans. Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) as a binder. Adding mushrooms, walnuts, and carrots enhances both flavor and texture.
3. Spicy Oatmeal Meatloaf
Try adding the following for people who enjoy a little heat:
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Diced jalapeños
This variation gives the classic meatloaf a bold and spicy twist!
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Oatmeal Meatloaf
A great meal isn’t just about the main dish—it’s also about what you serve with it! Here are some of the best side dishes to pair with your homemade oatmeal meatloaf:
1. Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
A creamy, buttery mashed potato side with rich gravy is the perfect traditional pairing for meatloaf.
2. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and asparagus bring a balance of freshness and crunch to complement the hearty meatloaf.
3. Fresh Salads
A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of meatloaf.
4. Steamed Green Beans
Lightly seasoned green beans add a nutritious and vibrant touch to your plate.
How to Store and Reheat Oatmeal Meatloaf
Got leftovers? No problem! Oatmeal meatloaf stores well and tastes even better the next day.
1. Refrigeration Tips
- Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before storing.
- Store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap.
- It can last up to four days in the refrigerator.
2. Freezing Instructions
- Cut the meatloaf into parts, then wrap each one separately.
- Store in freezer bags or airtight containers.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Best Ways to Reheat Without Drying Out
- Oven: Wrap in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals with a small splash of water.
- Stovetop: Reheat slices in a pan over low heat with a lid to trap moisture.
Health Benefits of Oatmeal Meatloaf
This oatmeal meatloaf isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients that contribute to a healthier diet.
1. High in Protein and Fiber
- The combination of ground meat and oats provides a great source of protein and dietary fiber, which helps with digestion.
2. Low-Fat and Heart-Healthy
- Using lean meats like turkey or chicken makes this dish lower in fat.
- Oatmeal contains beta-glucan, which helps lower bad cholesterol levels.
3. A Balanced Meal
- When paired with veggies and whole grains, oatmeal meatloaf becomes a well-rounded, nutritious meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best cooks can make mistakes! Here’s what to watch out for when making oatmeal meatloaf:
1. Overmixing the Meat
- Stirring too much makes the meatloaf dense and tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
2. Using Too Much or Too Little Oatmeal
- Adding too much oatmeal makes the meatloaf dry.
- Using too little may cause the loaf to fall apart.
3. Overcooking or Undercooking
- Always use a meat thermometer. The ideal internal temperature is 160°F (71°C).
How to Make Oatmeal Meatloaf Gluten-Free
If you’re avoiding gluten, here’s how to make this recipe work for you:
1. Use Certified Gluten-Free Oats
- Some oats may contain gluten due to cross-contamination, so always check the label.
2. Alternative Binders
- Instead of oats, try ground flaxseeds or almond flour as gluten-free binders.
Oatmeal Meatloaf for Meal Prep
Oatmeal meatloaf is a great choice for meal prepping!
1. Batch Cooking and Freezing
- Make two loaves and store one in the freezer.
- Pre-slice the loaf and store it in single-portion containers.
2. Easy Lunches and Dinners
- Serve with steamed veggies or use it in sandwiches for a quick meal.
Kid-Friendly Oatmeal Meatloaf
Want to make this dish more appealing for kids? Try these tips:
1. Add Cheese
- Mixing shredded cheese into the meatloaf makes it more flavorful and fun for kids.
2. Make Mini Meatloaves
- Instead of one large loaf, bake mini meatloaves in a muffin tin for easy portions.
3. Serve with Ketchup or Dipping Sauce
- Kids love dipping, so serve with ketchup, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
This oatmeal meatloaf recipe is just what you’d want in terms of easy, hearty, and delicious. Whether you’re making this for dinner, meal prep, or a family gathering, it’s sure to be a success. Try it out and let me know how it turns out!
FAQs
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
No, steel-cut oats take longer to cook and won’t soften. You need to stick with rolled or quick oats for the best texture.
What is the best meat for meatloaf?
Ground beef is best, using an 80/20 ratio, but you could use turkey, chicken, or a beef-pork mix if you prefer.
How do I prevent my meatloaf from falling apart?
Use enough binder-a combination of oatmeal and eggs.
Finally, let the meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing.
Can I make it without eggs?
Yes! Replace with flax eggs: 1 tbsp of ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp of water per egg, or use mashed potatoes as a binder.
What is the best way to add more flavor?
Add Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic powder, or smoked paprika.
Mix in grated Parmesan cheese for a rich taste.