This traditional Amish meatloaf is a beloved family favorite that brings together wholesome ingredients and timeless flavor. Made with lean ground beef, hearty oats, and rich tomato juice, it’s a moist, tender loaf that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. The sweet and tangy glaze adds a beautiful finish, making it a standout dish for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or Sunday suppers. Best of all, it’s gluten-free when made with certified oats, and the leftovers taste just as good—if not better—the next day!
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs lean ground beef (85/15 preferred)
- 1 cup quick oats (or old-fashioned oats)
- 1 cup tomato juice
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional for a gentle kick)
- ½ tsp garlic salt
- ½ tsp dried oregano (optional)
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp dry mustard
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish or an 8×8″ pan. This size helps the meatloaf cook evenly and stay moist. - Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomato juice, oats, eggs, chopped onion, garlic, salt, pepper, chili powder, garlic salt, and oregano. Stir until well blended. - Add the Beef:
Gently fold in the ground beef. Mix just until combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf tough. The mixture will be moist, which is perfect for a tender loaf. - Shape and Transfer:
Press the mixture into your prepared dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. - Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and dry mustard. Spread evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This glaze locks in moisture and adds a sweet-savory finish. - Bake:
Bake uncovered for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The edges should be slightly caramelized and the center cooked through. - Rest and Serve:
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes for cleaner slices.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered green beans, or baked sweet potatoes. For a fresh touch, add a crisp garden salad or coleslaw. Leftovers make fantastic sandwiches—just add a slice of cheddar or Swiss cheese and toast the bread for a cozy lunch.
Tips & Variations:
- 🌿 Want a twist? Add shredded cheese or lay strips of bacon on top before glazing.
- 🧅 No fresh onion? Use 1 tbsp dried minced onion instead.
- 🍽️ Feeding a crowd? Double the recipe and use a larger baking dish.
- 🧡 For a sugar-free version, swap the glaze with a mix of tomato paste and balsamic vinegar.
This meatloaf is more than just a meal—it’s a memory-maker. Whether it’s the aroma filling your kitchen or the smiles around the table, it’s a dish that brings people together. Let me know if you’d like a tropical or savory-sweet twist next time!