Old-Fashioned Southern Meatloaf Recipe

Paula Deen

Video Stats

Channel: Paula Deen
Host: Paula Deen
Published: May 14, 2025
Views: 47.2k

Recipe Overview

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 25 min
Difficulty: Intermediate
Serves: 4

Overview

This Old-Fashioned Southern Meatloaf recipe is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. The use of ground beef combined with oatmeal gives it a hearty texture, while the diced tomatoes add moisture and flavor. One of the standout features of this recipe is the individual loaf pans, which not only make for a charming presentation but also allow for easy portion control. Each person gets their own meatloaf, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

The preparation begins with sautéing the onions and peppers, which enhances their sweetness and ensures they blend seamlessly into the meat mixture. The addition of a simple topping made with ketchup and mustard adds a tangy finish that complements the savory flavors of the meatloaf. This dish is not just about taste; it evokes nostalgia, reminding many of home-cooked meals shared with family.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite spices or vegetables. Plus, it freezes beautifully, making it a great option for busy weeknights. Just pop a meatloaf in the oven, and you have a comforting meal ready in no time. Whether served with mashed potatoes or as a meatloaf sandwich, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Recipe Details

Steps & Tips

1
00:06

Gather ingredients for the meatloaf recipe.

2
00:15

Sauté peppers and onions until they are transparent.

3
01:37

Mix one pound of meatloaf with oatmeal, half a can of diced tomatoes, and one egg.

02:45

Tip: Use house seasoning for flavor, which includes salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

4
03:12

Add house seasoning, salt, and pepper to the meatloaf mixture.

05:44

Tip: Add a tablespoon of mustard to the topping for extra flavor.

5
06:25

Spray individual 3x5 loaf pans with cooking spray.

6
07:02

Put the topping on the bottom of the pan before adding the meatloaf.

7
08:07

Dollop remaining diced tomatoes on top of the meatloaf.

08:41

Tip: Bake smaller meatloafs at 350 degrees for about 25 minutes.

8
09:31

Place the meatloafs in the oven and bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes.

09:53

Tip: You can freeze the meatloafs on a sheet pan and cook them directly from frozen.

9
10:06

Serve the meatloaf once cooked.

Ingredients

Serves: 4
Oatmeal1 cup
Diced Tomatoes7 oz
Egg1
Salt1 tsp
Pepper1 tsp
Ketchup2 tbsp
Mustard1 tbsp
Onion1
Green Pepper1
Allergen Alerts

Ingredient: Dairy

    → Substitution: Almond Milk

Ingredient: Eggs

    → Substitution: Flaxseed Meal + Water

Nutrition

Calories
480
kcal per serving
Protein
22
per serving
Carbs
40
per serving

Skill Level

Skill Level Intermediate
Beginner Intermediate Advanced

Frequently asked questions

Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.

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Interesting Tidbits

  • Using individual loaf pans for meatloaf allows for perfect portion control and easy serving.
  • Sautéing onions and peppers before adding them to the meatloaf enhances their flavor and texture.
  • Meatloaf can be frozen and reheated, making it a convenient meal option for busy days.
  • Adding diced tomatoes to meatloaf keeps it moist and adds a subtle sweetness.