If you’re searching for a no-fail, flavorful dinner idea, look no further than this meatloaf recipe with onion soup mix. This classic comfort food is beloved across generations for its juicy texture, savory flavor, and simple preparation. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a Sunday family dinner, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of convenience and taste.
Why Use Onion Soup Mix in Meatloaf?
Incorporating onion soup mix into your meatloaf recipe brings instant flavor without needing to chop, sauté, or season from scratch. The mix, often a blend of dried onions, herbs, and savory spices, enhances the ground beef with rich umami depth and a hint of sweetness from the dehydrated onions. It’s a tried-and-true shortcut that never fails to deliver.
Easy Meatloaf Recipe with Onion Soup Mix
Ingredients:
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2 pounds ground beef (80/20 for best moisture)
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1 packet dry onion soup mix (such as Lipton)
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2 large eggs
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¾ cup milk
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1 cup plain breadcrumbs
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¼ cup ketchup (plus more for topping)
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional for added depth)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
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Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion soup mix, eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
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Shape and place: Transfer the mixture into the loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet.
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Add topping: Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top for a classic glaze.
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Bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
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Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or your favorite sides.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf
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Use ground beef with some fat: 80/20 ground beef helps keep the loaf moist.
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Don’t overwork the meat: Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
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Customize the glaze: Mix ketchup with a little brown sugar or mustard for a sweeter or tangier glaze.
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Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing keeps juices inside and prevents crumbling.
Variations to Try
While the meatloaf recipe with onion soup mix is delicious as-is, here are a few ways to customize it:
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Cheesy Meatloaf: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the mix for extra richness.
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Turkey Version: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter option—just add a bit more milk to avoid dryness.
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Vegetable Add-ins: Finely dice carrots, celery, or bell peppers and mix them in for extra nutrition and texture.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of chili flakes to the meat mixture for heat.
Why This Recipe Works for Busy Cooks
This meatloaf recipe with onion soup mix is perfect for those who want a homemade meal without the hassle. The dry soup mix eliminates the need to measure and chop onions or worry about under-seasoning. Plus, all ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up anytime.
Make it ahead of time, store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze slices for convenient future meals. It’s a budget-friendly, protein-rich option that keeps everyone full and happy.
Final Thoughts
When you need a dependable dinner that satisfies both adults and kids alike, this meatloaf recipe with onion soup mix checks all the boxes. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and easy to adapt to your family’s preferences. Pair it with your favorite comfort food sides, and you’ve got a timeless meal that never goes out of style.
Try it tonight—you may just find it becomes your new go-to meatloaf recipe.
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