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My Mom’s 5-Ingredient Meatloaf Is My Favorite

Mom's classic 5-ingredient meatloaf recipe with perfect glazed top and moist interior

A beloved family recipe that proves comfort food doesn’t need complexity. This meatloaf brings together just five core ingredients for a rich, juicy, flavorful meal that’s fast and fuss-free. Ideal for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  1. 2 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)

  2. 1 cup old-fashioned oats (a moist, fiber-rich substitute for breadcrumbs)

  3. 1 large egg

  4. 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  5. ½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C).

  2. Prepare your baking pan or sheet—either grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment or aluminium foil.

  3. Combine in a large bowl: ground beef, oats, beaten egg, chopped onion, and ½ cup ketchup. Use your hands to gently mix until just combined (overworking can make the loaf dense). bestwayrecipes.com

  4. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it into your prepared pan.

  5. Bake in the preheated oven (time not specified; typical meatloaf with similar ingredients needs around 55–90 minutes depending on thickness).

  6. Glaze by spreading extra ketchup on top partway through or toward the end of baking.

  7. Check for doneness: internal temperature should reach 160 °F (71 °C).

  8. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute. bestwayrecipes.com

Notes

  • Oats serve as a healthier, fiber-rich alternative to breadcrumbs, adding structure while keeping the loaf moist.

  • Be gentle when mixing to preserve a tender texture.

  • Customize sweetness or tang by adjusting ketchup quantity or trying variations like cheese-stuffed or herb-infused versions. bestwayrecipe