This hearty Onion Soup Mix Meatloaf is a crowd-pleaser! It blends ground beef with flavorful onion soup mix for a delicious twist on a classic dish.
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just mix everything, pop it in the oven, and in no time, you’ve got a warm meal that’s perfect for any night. Plus, it makes great leftovers! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean for the best balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works too, but they may need additional seasoning to enhance the flavor.
Onion Soup Mix: This adds lots of flavor without much effort. If you want to make it from scratch, mix dried onion flakes, garlic powder, and some herbs. That’s a great option for those watching additives or sodium!
Breadcrumbs: I prefer plain breadcrumbs, but seasoned ones can add extra flavor. If you’re keeping it low-carb, crushed pork rinds or oats can be great substitutes.
Cheese: Cheese is optional, but I love adding mozzarella for a gooey texture. If you want a stronger flavor, cheddar works well too! Feel free to skip it if you’re dairy-free.
How Do I Avoid a Crumbly Meatloaf?
A common issue with meatloaf is that it can crumble easily. To keep it together:
- Don’t overmix the ingredients; mix just until combined for the best texture.
- Use warm milk to help bind everything together, and make sure to include breadcrumbs for structure.
- If your mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs until it holds together better.
- After shaping the meatloaf, make sure to seal the edges; this helps prevent it from falling apart as it cooks.
With these tips, you’ll end up with a delicious meatloaf every time! Enjoy your cooking! 🍽️
How to Make Onion Soup Mix Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) dry onion soup mix
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded or sliced cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar), optional for stuffing
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Time Needed:
This delicious meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prep and 1 hour of cooking time. You’ll need to let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing, making the total time around 1 hour and 25 minutes before digging in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). You want to make sure it’s nice and hot for cooking your meatloaf! Lightly grease a loaf pan or you can line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with the dry onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, milk, and eggs. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your meatloaf tough! You can season it with a little salt and pepper if you’d like.
3. Layer with Cheese (Optional):
If you’re using cheese, take half of the meat mixture and spread it evenly into your loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet. Then, layer your cheese on top and cover it with the remaining meat mixture. Make sure to seal the edges well!
4. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Spread half of this tasty mixture over the top of your meatloaf, so it’s coated with deliciousness.
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
Pop the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). It’s okay to check with a meat thermometer if you have one.
6. Add the Finishing Touch:
Once it’s done baking, take it out and spread the remaining ketchup glaze over the top. Return it to the oven for an additional 10 minutes to caramelize a bit.
7. Rest Before Slicing:
Let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps it hold together when you slice it. Then, garnish with some freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice your meatloaf and serve warm. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal!
This recipe is perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week. Enjoy your tasty and hearty Onion Soup Mix Meatloaf! 🍽️
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. Just keep in mind that it may not be as flavorful, so consider adding extra seasonings or a bit more onion soup mix for a delicious taste!
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you’re out of breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, oatmeal, or even cooked rice. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, crushed pork rinds work well too!
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it well with plastic wrap or foil. For longer storage, shape it and freeze it, then bake from frozen, adding a bit of extra time to the cook.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in the oven until heated through. It also makes great sandwiches!
