quaker oats meatloaf recipe
The Best quaker oats meatloaf recipe
I love serving it for special occasions because itās versatile. You can top it with ketchup, BBQ sauce, or even a simple glaze, and it works just as well for family dinners as it does for a game night or a weekend brunch (yes, reallyājust cut it up and serve with eggs and toast). My kids always ask for it because itās not too sweet, not too salty, and itās got that familiar meatloaf taste without being too heavy. And the best part? Itās packed with fiber from the oats, which keeps everyone full longer, and itās got lean protein to balance out the meal. No one ever feels like theyāre eating a āhealth foodāāit just tastes like home, and thatās what really matters.

Quaker Oats Meatloaf with Classic Sauce
A hearty, flavorful meatloaf made with Quaker Oats for added texture and moisture, paired with a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a comforting family meal.
š„Ingredients
- 2 cups (240g) finely ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 cup (120g) cooked Quaker Oats (quick or old-fashioned)
- 1 cup (125g) breadcrumbs (whole wheat preferred)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ cup (120ml) milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
šØāš³Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. -
2
In a large bowl, mix cooked Quaker Oats, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder until well combined. -
3
In a separate bowl, combine ground beef, remaining ingredients for the dough (if not mixed yet), and gently fold until evenly distributed. -
4
Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing down gently to compact it. Cover loosely with aluminum foil. -
5
Preheat sauce ingredients: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. SautƩ garlic for 30 seconds, then add tomato sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened. -
6
Bake the meatloaf for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). -
7
Pour the sauce over the meatloaf and bake for an additional 5 minutes to let it absorb. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
š§Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Food processor or hand mixer (optional for oats)
- Loaf pan (9Ć5-inch)
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
šNutrition Facts (per serving)
šNotes
Tips
- For extra moisture, add ¼ cup grated zucchini or carrots to the meatloaf mixture (squeeze out excess liquid).
- Substitute whole wheat breadcrumbs for a lower-carb option.
- Serve with steamed green beans or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Make ahead: Assemble the meatloaf, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Storage: {āfridgeā:āUp to 4 daysā,āfreezerā:āUp to 3 months (bake, cool, wrap tightly, and freeze)ā}
Watch Video Of How Quaker Oats Meatloaf with Classic Sauce Works
ā Frequently Asked Questions About Quaker Oats Meatloaf with Sauce
What is the best way to prepare Quaker Oats Meatloaf for a crowd?
To prepare Quaker Oats Meatloaf for a crowd, use a larger mixing bowl and increase the quantity of ingredients proportionally. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and shape the meatloaf into a larger loaf shape or multiple smaller patties. Use a meatball mold or a loaf pan lined with parchment paper to ensure even cooking. Bake for about 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to maintain juiciness.
Can I substitute any of the ingredients in the Quaker Oats Meatloaf recipe?
Yes, you can make some substitutions while keeping the dish flavorful. For ground beef, you can use a mix of ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian blend made with mushrooms and lentils. To replace eggs, try adding 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water (let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken) per egg. For breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, panko, or even cooked quinoa for a gluten-free option. Always adjust liquid ingredients slightly if substituting dry ones.
How do I ensure the Quaker Oats Meatloaf stays moist and flavorful?
To keep your Quaker Oats Meatloaf moist and flavorful, follow these tips:
ā Mix well but donāt overwork the meatāthis helps retain juices.
ā Use a binding agent like egg, flaxseed, or breadcrumbs to hold everything together.
ā Bake with a small amount of liquid (like milk, broth, or tomato sauce) to add moisture.
ā Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicingāthis helps redistribute juices.
ā Brush with melted butter or a light glaze (like BBQ sauce or honey mustard) before serving to add extra flavor and moisture.
What are some great side dishes to serve with Quaker Oats Meatloaf?
Quaker Oats Meatloaf pairs well with classic sides like:
ā Classic mashed potatoes (with butter and sour cream)
ā Roasted or steamed green beans (tossed in olive oil and garlic)
ā Creamy macaroni and cheese (for a hearty combo)
ā Simple coleslaw (for a fresh, crunchy contrast)
ā Garlic bread or cornbread (to soak up the juices)
ā Fresh salad with a light vinaigrette (like arugula or mixed greens)
Why does my Quaker Oats Meatloaf turn out dry, and how can I fix it?
A dry Quaker Oats Meatloaf often happens due to overbaking, lack of moisture, or overmixing. To fix it:
ā Check the internal temperatureāit should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe doneness but not exceed that.
ā Add moisture backāgently mix in a little broth, tomato sauce, or even a splash of milk before baking.
ā Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
ā Let it restāif itās dry after baking, cover loosely with foil and warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to rehydrate.
ā Consider a glazeābrush with BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or a light ketchup glaze before serving to add moisture and flavor.
