Hearty and Wholesome Classic Meatloaf Made with Oats

Published on May 13, 2025

There’s something about a classic, homemade meatloaf that’s undeniably comforting. It’s warm, savory, and, when you make it with Butte Creek Mill’s old fashioned oats, it’s just like grandma used to make. While traditional meatloaf recipes call for breadcrumbs, using oats can take your meatloaf to the next level with a subtle nutty flavor and a rustic touch that makes every bite feel like home.

Old fashioned oats work as a fantastic binder in meatloaf. They absorb moisture and hold everything together like breadcrumbs, but they also bring a nuanced flavor and added nutritional value. Oats are a good source of fiber, contain essential vitamins, and are naturally gluten-free (just check the label to see if they’re certified). Whether you’re cooking for the family or prepping for the week ahead, this oat-infused classic meatloaf is a hearty and satisfying way to use Butte Creek Mill’s fresh-milled oats.

Ingredients for Classic Meatloaf:

For the meatloaf:

  • 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)
  • 1 cup Butte Creek Mill old fashioned oats
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • ½ cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning

For the topping:

  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon mustard

How to Make It:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the oats and milk. Let them soak for 5 minutes to soften.
  3. Add the ground meat, onion, garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and herbs if using. Mix gently until just combined – don’t overwork it!
  4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or lined sheet pan and form into a loaf shape.
  5. In a small bowl, mix together the topping ingredients and spread over the top of the meatloaf.
  6. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
  7. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Make Classic Meatloaf Like Grandma’s with Quality Ingredients from Butte Creek Mill

Using old fashioned oats from Butte Creek Mill in your meatloaf is a small change that brings big benefits. It’s budget-friendly, better for you, and every bit as delicious as the classic. At Butte Creek Mill, our thick cut old fashioned oats are milled the old fashioned way. Whether you’re preparing a classic meatloaf, oatmeal cookies, or granola, you’ll taste the difference quality ingredients make. Pick up a package of our hearty oats when you visit us in person in Eagle Point, Oregon for a tour of our historic grain mill, or browse our vast selection of delicious, wholesome products online.

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