Juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare, this Quaker Oats Meatloaf Recipe is a comforting classic that never goes out of style. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started in the kitchen, this recipe is one of those go-to meals that always hits the spot. Imagine cutting into a tender slice of meatloaf, packed with savory goodness, and served with creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp side salad—yes, it’s that good!
Did you know this dish dates back to the 1950s when Quaker Oats printed the recipe on their oatmeal canisters as a budget-friendly alternative to breadcrumbs? Talk about old-school genius! Since then, it’s been a weeknight dinner hero for families across America.
What makes this meatloaf stand out? It’s budget-friendly, made with pantry staples, and perfect for picky eaters and hearty appetites alike. Plus, it’s faster to whip up than a lot of other baked meals—we’re talking under an hour from start to finish.
If you enjoyed our popular “Slow Cooker Pot Roast” recipe, you’ll love this meatloaf just as much for its cozy, stick-to-your-ribs charm. Ready to impress your family tonight? Let’s dig into the details!
Table of Contents
What is Quaker Oats Meatloaf Recipe?
You might be wondering, what in the world do oats have to do with meatloaf? Well, the easy quaker oats meatloaf is a brilliant twist on the traditional meatloaf that uses oats instead of breadcrumbs to bind everything together. Clever, right?
Legend has it this quirky combo came from frugal moms and grandmas who knew that ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach’—and his stomach prefers dinner on a budget! Using oats makes the meatloaf moist, hearty, and just a little bit wholesome.
So, why not give it a try? It’s simple, satisfying, and just different enough to make your usual dinner lineup feel brand-new.
Why You’ll Love This Quaker Oats Meatloaf Recipe
- Incredibly Moist and Flavorful: Thanks to the oats, every bite of this meatloaf is tender and packed with savory goodness. No dry slices here!
- Budget-Friendly & Fuss-Free: You likely already have the ingredients on hand, making this a wallet-conscious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Plus, it comes together fast—perfect for weeknights.
- Delicious Add-Ins and Toppings: A tangy ketchup glaze on top adds a sweet-savory kick. Want to mix it up? Add chopped onions, garlic, or even a bit of shredded cheese for extra flavor.
This dish is right up there with our “Classic Ground Beef Chili” in terms of easy comfort food that delivers big on taste. Go ahead—try both and pick your favorite!
How to Make Quaker Oats Meatloaf Recipe
Quick Overview
This Quaker Oats Meatloaf Recipe is all about keeping things simple without sacrificing taste. With just a handful of pantry staples and 5 easy steps, you can serve up a juicy, flavorful meatloaf that your whole family will love. Prep time is just 15 minutes, and it bakes in about 45–50 minutes—easy enough for a busy night!
Key Ingredients for Quaker Oats Meatloaf Recipe:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (preferably 85% lean)
- 1 cup Quaker Oats (quick or old-fashioned)
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
- Optional: 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, or shredded cheese for variation
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix the ground beef, Quaker oats, milk, beaten egg, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined. Don’t overmix—that can make the meatloaf dense.
- Shape the loaf: Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan and shape it into a loaf. Flatten the top slightly.
- Add the glaze: Spread ketchup evenly over the top of the loaf. You can mix in a little brown sugar or mustard with the ketchup for a zesty twist.
- Bake and serve: Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
What to Serve ground beef oats meatloaf With
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they soak up that meatloaf juice perfectly.
- Roasted Veggies: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans make colorful, healthy sides.
- Classic Mac and Cheese: Because why not double the comfort?
- Simple Garden Salad: Lightens up the plate and adds a crisp contrast.
Top Tips for Perfecting Quaker Oats Meatloaf Recipe
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing the meat too much makes it tough. Just combine until everything sticks together.
- Try Ground Turkey: For a lighter version, sub in ground turkey or chicken—just add a splash of broth to keep it moist.
- Make it Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes to give your loaf a little kick.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures it’s perfectly cooked inside without guessing.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- To Store: Wrap leftover slices tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- To Reheat: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or reheat the whole loaf in a 300°F oven for 15–20 minutes.
- To Freeze: Wrap the cooked, cooled meatloaf (whole or sliced) in foil and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
This Quaker Oats Meatloaf Recipe brings comfort food to your table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a dish that never disappoints. Try it tonight—and don’t forget to check out more easy recipes on the blog!
Quaker Oats Meatloaf Recipe From DelishDish!
Quaker Oats Meatloaf Recipe: 5 Easy Steps to Perfection
Course: main courseCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
servings15
minutes50
minutes280
kcalIngredients
1 1/2 lbs ground beef (preferably 85% lean)
1 cup Quaker Oats (quick or old-fashioned)
3/4 cup milk
1 egg, beaten
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
Optional: 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, or shredded cheese for variation
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix the ground beef, Quaker oats, milk, beaten egg, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined. Don’t overmix—that can make the meatloaf dense.
- Shape the loaf: Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan and shape it into a loaf. Flatten the top slightly.
- Add the glaze: Spread ketchup evenly over the top of the loaf. You can mix in a little brown sugar or mustard with the ketchup for a zesty twist.
- Bake and serve: Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Resting Time: Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Lean Options: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
Freezing Tip: Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months, then thaw and reheat.
Conclusion:
The classic meatloaf with oats is a timeless classic that brings comfort to your table in just a few simple steps. With its perfect balance of flavors and moist texture, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something easy but satisfying. The use of Quaker oats instead of breadcrumbs adds a unique twist, making it not only delicious but also a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Whether you prefer adding a tangy glaze, spicing it up with hot sauce, or mixing in some shredded cheese, you can easily make it your own. The best part? It’s affordable, so you can enjoy a hearty meal without breaking the bank.
So, why not try this Quaker Oats Meatloaf Recipe tonight? It’s the perfect comfort food that will leave everyone at the dinner table satisfied. Easy to prepare, full of flavor, and great for leftovers, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to time and time again.
FAQs : Quaker Oats Meatloaf Recipe
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the secret to making a moist meatloaf?
To make a moist meatloaf, the key is to use ingredients like Quaker oats and milk, which add moisture and bind the meat together. Avoid overmixing the meat mixture, as it can lead to a dense texture. Let the meatloaf rest after baking to allow the juices to redistribute.
Can I substitute Quaker oats with breadcrumbs in meatloaf?
Yes! If you don’t have Quaker oats, you can substitute them with breadcrumbs. However, oats provide a slightly different texture and added moisture, so the result may vary. Quaker oats give a heartier and more filling texture compared to traditional breadcrumbs.
How do I make my meatloaf recipe healthier?
To make your Quaker Oats meatloaf healthier, consider using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also reduce the amount of ketchup and use a homemade glaze or low-sodium options to cut down on sugar and sodium content.
Can I freeze meatloaf for later?
Absolutely! Meatloaf freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
How long should I bake meatloaf for?
Bake your Quaker Oats meatloaf at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). If you prefer a firmer loaf, you can bake it for an extra 5-10 minutes, checking for doneness.
What are some tasty side dishes to serve with meatloaf?
Some great side dishes to serve with Quaker Oats meatloaf include mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli, or a fresh salad. For a heartier meal, try pairing it with roasted potatoes or rice.
How can I add flavor to my meatloaf without ketchup?
If you’re not a fan of ketchup, you can try adding a homemade glaze made from BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and mustard. Alternatively, you can season your meatloaf with herbs, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
Can I make Quaker Oats meatloaf in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. After preparing the meat mixture, shape it into a loaf and place it in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
