Paula Deen Meatloaf Recipe

Let me share with you Paula Deen’s timeless meatloaf recipe, a true classic in the world of hearty home cooking. Amen!

You’ll enjoy how this recipe combines ground beef with onions, bell peppers, and a blend of simple seasonings.

The real star here is the comforting ketchup glaze that caramelizes beautifully on top while baking.

This dish has been my go-to for gatherings or just a relaxed evening meal because it’s simple yet satisfies no matter how hungry you are.

How to Make Paula Deen Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb Ground Beef
• 1/2 cup Onion (chopped)
• 1/2 cup Bell Pepper (chopped)
• 1 Egg
• 1/2 cup Oats
• 1 can Tomatoes (15 oz., with juice)
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 1/2 cup Ketchup
• 2 tbsp Brown Sugar
• 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 375°F.

Prepare a baking dish by lining it with foil and spraying it lightly with cooking spray.

Step 2:

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, bell pepper, egg, oats, tomatoes, salt, and black pepper.

Mix gently to form a cohesive mixture taking care not to overmix.

Step 3:

Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in your prepared baking dish.

Slightly flatten the top to help the topping stick and cook evenly.

Step 4:

In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard.

Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf, using a spoon or spatula.

Step 5:

Bake in your preheated oven for about 1 hour or until fully cooked.

Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Ingredients

Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture in your meatloaf.

It really makes a difference in the taste!

Don’t Overmix

Be gentle with the mixing if you want a tender meatloaf.

Overmixing can make it dense and tough, which you definitely want to avoid.

Rest Before Slicing

Let the meatloaf rest after baking to keep it from falling apart.

This also helps the juices redistribute, making each slice more delicious.

Try Different Toppings

Feel free to experiment with adding barbecue sauce or a sprinkle of cheese on top for a new twist.

It’s fun to add your touch to favorite recipes.

Check Internal Temperature

Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatloaf reaches 160°F.

This is the safe temperature for ground beef, ensuring it’s cooked just right.

What to Serve with Paula Deen Meatloaf

Mashed Potatoes

You can’t go wrong with classic creamy mashed potatoes as a side for your meatloaf.

They soak up the meatloaf’s savory juices perfectly and add a comforting texture to your meal.

To enhance this pairing, consider adding a bit of garlic or chives to your mashed potatoes.

Green Beans

Fresh green beans bring a vibrant color and crisp texture to the table.

They balance the richness of the meatloaf beautifully.

Try sautéing them in a little butter or olive oil with some almonds for added flavor.

Coleslaw

Coleslaw provides a refreshing, tangy contrast to the hearty meatloaf.

Its crunchy texture and bright flavor offer a palate-cleansing side.

Consider a recipe with a vinegar-based dressing for a lighter, zesty option.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts might not be as traditional, but they pair wonderfully with meatloaf.

The slight bitterness and caramelization from roasting add depth and interest to your meal.

Add a sprinkle of balsamic reduction for a hint of sweetness and extra flavor.

Cauliflower Steaks

For a unique twist, serve roasted cauliflower steaks seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and garlic.

They provide a subtle nutty flavor and a hearty complement to the main dish.

Grilling or roasting them until they are golden and tender is the way to go here.

Variations and Substitutions

When making Paula Deen’s meatloaf, you have plenty of options for variations and substitutions to suit your taste.

Alternative Proteins

You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option!

Another great choice is mixing in some ground pork to add extra flavor and juiciness.

Vegetable Tweaks

Feel free to swap out bell pepper with diced carrots or celery for a different crunch.

If you’re not a fan of onions, try using shallots for a milder, sweeter taste.

Grain Options

Consider using crushed crackers or bread crumbs instead of oats to change the texture.

Gluten-free oats or gluten-free bread crumbs work great if you’re avoiding gluten.

Spice It Up

For those who love spice, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper.

Herbs like rosemary or thyme can give a new, savory twist to the dish!

Saucy Tips

Try barbecue sauce or a spicy ketchup on top instead of the usual ketchup-mustard blend.

These little changes can bring fun variations to a classic meatloaf!

How to Store Leftover Meatloaf

When it comes to storing leftover meatloaf, you have a few options to keep it fresh and tasty!

Refrigerating Your Meatloaf

Wrap each slice of meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain its moisture.

Place the wrapped meatloaf in an airtight container to prevent any air from getting in.

Store it in the refrigerator for up to four days, which helps keep it fresh and ready for your next meal!

Freezing for Long-Term Storage

Wrap the meatloaf well in plastic wrap, making sure there are no gaps.

For additional protection, you can place the wrapped meatloaf in a zip-top freezer bag.

Label the bag with the date, and it should last for up to three months in the freezer.

Using Leftovers Wisely

Chop leftover meatloaf into small pieces and incorporate it into cooked pasta for an easy meal.

Add bite-sized meatloaf chunks to a stir-fry with vegetables and sauce for a quick dinner.

Creating these simple dishes makes good use of your tasty leftovers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing

When you’re mixing the ingredients for Paula Deen’s meatloaf, it’s tempting to keep going until it looks perfect.

Try to resist this urge to overmix the ingredients because it can lead to a dense and tough meatloaf.

Instead, gently combine the mixture until it’s just mixed, and this will keep things tender.

Skimping on the Seasoning

Underseasoning is one mistake you don’t want to make.

You want every bite to be flavorful, so be generous with your salt, pepper, and any favorite spices you love.

Don’t forget to taste a small, cooked portion to make sure the seasoning is right before baking the whole loaf.

Ignoring the Resting Period

Letting your meatloaf rest is so important, and it’s a step often skipped due to hunger or impatience.

This resting period, about 10-15 minutes, helps lock in the juices, making your meatloaf moist and delicious.

The extra time is worth it because it’s a simple trick that makes a big difference.