This yummy Onion Soup Mix Meatloaf is super easy to make! Just mix ground beef with onion soup mix for a flavorful twist and bake until golden brown.
You can’t go wrong with meatloaf! I love how the onion flavor comes through. Serve it with mashed potatoes, and you’ve got comfort food at its best! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken, but be aware that it can result in a drier meatloaf.
Dry Onion Soup Mix: This mix is key for adding flavor! If you don’t have it on hand or want to make it from scratch, use a combination of onion powder, garlic powder, and a bit of salt instead. You could even sauté fresh onions and garlic to add depth.
Dried Bread Crumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs work well, but you can use crushed crackers or oats if you’re out of breadcrumbs. They’ll also help bind the meatloaf.
Ketchup: Besides being a topping, ketchup adds moisture and flavor. You can substitute with barbecue sauce for a smoky twist or use a homemade sauce if you prefer cooking from scratch.
How Do I Make Sure My Meatloaf is Moist and Flavorful?
Getting moist meatloaf is all about the right mixing and baking techniques. Here are some tips to ensure a perfect result:
- Mix the ingredients gently to avoid overworking the meat, as too much mixing can lead to a tough texture.
- Add the milk towards the end of mixing to help keep the meat moist. It’s okay if your mixture looks a bit sticky – this helps retain moisture.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking. This helps redistribute the juices, making it more flavorful.
Using a meat thermometer is a great way to check doneness without cutting into it. Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety and perfect texture.
Onion Soup Mix Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) dry onion soup mix
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup dried bread crumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for topping)
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meatloaf will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 1 hour to bake, plus an additional 10 minutes to rest after cooking. So, in total, you’re looking at a little over an hour and a half from start to finish. That’s quick for a hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is important to ensure your meatloaf cooks evenly throughout.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the ground beef, dry onion soup mix, milk, dried bread crumbs, and eggs. Mix all the ingredients gently with your hands or a spatula until everything is well combined. Make sure not to overmix; you want to keep it nice and tender!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Once the mixture is combined, shape it into a loaf. You can do this by placing it into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan or simply forming it by hand on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Either way works well!
4. Add the Ketchup Topping:
Spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will create a delicious glaze while it cooks and add even more flavor!
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf into the preheated oven and bake it for about 1 hour. You can check if it’s done by inserting a meat thermometer in the center; it should read 160°F (71°C).
6. Let it Rest:
Once done, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and will make slicing much easier!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, slice, and serve warm. This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or your favorite veggies!
This recipe results in a moist and flavorful meatloaf that benefits from the savory flavor of the onion soup mix, topped with a classic ketchup glaze. It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just keep in mind that it may result in a slightly drier meatloaf, so consider adding an extra splash of milk or even a spoonful of olive oil to maintain moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Dried Bread Crumbs?
If you don’t have dried bread crumbs, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice as a binder. Just make sure the substitution matches the texture closely to help the meatloaf hold together.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and slice it for easier reheating later!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Yes! Chopped onions, bell peppers, or grated carrots can be a great addition. Just make sure to sauté them first to remove excess moisture and keep your meatloaf from becoming soggy. Aim for about 1 cup of veggies combined.