Meatloaf Recipe with Oatmeal

This meatloaf recipe with oatmeal uses quick oats instead of breadcrumbs for a firm, juicy meatloaf that holds together when sliced. The oats blend into the meat as they cook, so you don’t notice pieces of oatmeal in the finished loaf.

I use 3/4 cup quick oats for 2 pounds of ground beef, along with buttermilk, eggs, sautéed onion and garlic, and a simple mix of herbs and seasonings. Letting the mixture rest for about 30 minutes before baking gives the oats time to absorb the buttermilk, which helps with the final texture. A sweet ketchup and brown sugar glaze finishes the meatloaf before it goes back into the oven.

How to Make Meatloaf with Oatmeal

1. Cook the onion and garlic. Heat a skillet over medium to medium-high heat and cook the diced onion and garlic until softened with a little browning around the edges. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Stir in the parsley and thyme for about 10 seconds, then remove from the heat and let the mixture cool.
2. Mix the meatloaf. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, quick oats, buttermilk, beaten eggs, seasonings, and cooled onion mixture. Mix just until everything is evenly combined.
3. Let the mixture rest. Cover and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This gives the quick oats time to absorb the buttermilk and moisture before baking.
4. Shape the loaf. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9-inch loaf pan so the finished meatloaf can be lifted out easily, then add the meat mixture and gently press it into the pan.
5. Bake before glazing. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the meatloaf from the oven and check the internal temperature.
6. Add the ketchup glaze. Mix the ketchup and brown sugar, then spread it over the top of the meatloaf. Return the pan to the oven and continue baking until the center reaches 160°F.
7. Rest before slicing. Let the meatloaf rest for about 20 minutes before lifting it from the pan and slicing. This helps the loaf stay together instead of crumbling when cut.

What to Serve with Meatloaf with Oatmeal

This oatmeal meatloaf pairs well with classic comfort-food sides like mashed potatoes and gravy, macaroni and cheese, or scalloped potatoes.

For something lighter on the side, add green beans, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

For individual slices, reheat them in the microwave until warmed through. You can also wrap the meatloaf in foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through.

More Meatloaf Recipes

If you want to try a different variation, check out my Italian Meatloaf, Ground Chicken Meatloaf, Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf, or Turkey Meatloaf.

For a more traditional version made without oatmeal, try my Easy Meatloaf Recipe.