Easy Meatloaf Recipe with Onion Soup Mix
A flavorful and easy-to-make meatloaf recipe featuring onion soup mix for a savory, juicy, and tender dinner option perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe combines simple pantry staples with fresh ingredients to deliver a comforting meal loved by the whole family, with options to customize based on dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (when using gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitutes)
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers/oats for gluten-free)
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup milk
- ⅓ cup ketchup (divided: half mixed in, half for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Ingredients Thoroughly: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, and half of the ketchup. Mix evenly with hands or a spoon just until combined, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep it tender.
- Shape and Bake: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared pan and shape it into a loaf. Spread the remaining ketchup evenly over the top to create a glossy, flavorful crust. Bake in the oven for about 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and delicious before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Don’t overmix the meat to avoid a dense loaf; combine ingredients just until blended.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure proper cooking.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing to keep it juicy and easier to cut.
- Customize toppings with alternatives such as BBQ sauce or mustard glaze for different flavor profiles.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for better moisture absorption and improved texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/6th of loaf)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: meatloaf, easy meatloaf, onion soup mix, quick dinner, family meal, comfort food, gluten-free option