Why Make This Recipe
Paula Deen’s Old-Fashioned Meatloaf is a comforting dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals. It’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. This meatloaf is not only delicious but also hearty, making it a perfect family meal.
How to Make Paula Deen Old-Fashioned Meatloaf
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup chopped onion
- ½ cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 8 oz can diced tomatoes, drained
- ½ cup quick-cooking oats
Glaze:
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp mustard
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, gently mix together the ground beef, salt, pepper, onion, bell pepper, egg, diced tomatoes, and oats.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- In a small bowl, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to make the glaze.
- Spread the glaze evenly over the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps seal in the juices.
How to Serve Paula Deen Old-Fashioned Meatloaf
Serve sliced meatloaf with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables. You can also pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a more filling meal. Don’t forget to drizzle some extra glaze over the slices for added flavor!
How to Store Paula Deen Old-Fashioned Meatloaf
If you have leftover meatloaf, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze slices for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
Tips to Make Paula Deen Old-Fashioned Meatloaf
- Make sure to not overmix the meat; this keeps your meatloaf tender.
- You can add other vegetables like carrots or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Variation
You can try adding shredded cheese to the meat mixture for a cheesy take on this classic dish. You may also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
FAQs
Q: Can I use breadcrumbs instead of oats?
A: Yes, you can substitute breadcrumbs for quick-cooking oats if you prefer.
Q: How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature has reached 160°F (71°C).
Q: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Old-Fashioned Meatloaf
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup chopped onion
- ½ cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 8 oz can diced tomatoes, drained
- ½ cup quick-cooking oats
Glaze
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp mustard
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, gently mix together the ground beef, salt, pepper, onion, bell pepper, egg, diced tomatoes, and oats.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
Cooking
- In a small bowl, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to make the glaze.
- Spread the glaze evenly over the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.