Original Lipton Onion Soup Meatloaf

The original Lipton onion soup meatloaf recipe combines ground beef with a savory blend of Lipton onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, and eggs, making it flavorful and moist.

It’s a flavorful meatloaf made with a not-so-secret ingredient: an envelope of Lipton onion soup mix.

It’s my family’s favorite meatloaf recipe and it has a wonderful onion flavor, but not so over the top that that’s all you taste. I add a glaze on top to give it a sweeter flavor, which is my husband’s favorite part! (He’s a sauceman.)

There’s very little prep and popping it in the oven for a little less than an hour provides time to get other things done around the house during those busy weeknights.

Meatloaf vs Salisbury Steak

Salisbury steak and meatloaf are both classic comfort foods made with ground meat, but they differ in their preparation, shape, and flavor.

Origins: There are varying stories of the origin of meatloaf. Some say it has been around since the late 1800s and originated in European countries like Germany and Belgium while others say it originated in Rome anywhere from the first to fifth century.

Salisbury steak originated in the late 1800s, by an American doctor, Dr. James Salisbury, who promoted a diet of ground beef. (Who would have thought?)

Ingredients: Both Salisbury steak and meatloaf are made with ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, and seasonings.

However, some recipes combine a mixture of ground beef, pork, or veal in their meatloaf.

Shape: While the bulk of the ingredients are the same for both, the shaping is different. Salisbury steak is formed into multiple hamburger patties while meatloaf is formed into one big loaf (hence the name!) that gets sliced after it’s cooked.

Cooking Method: The cooking methods also differ. Meatloaf is baked in the oven and Salisbury steak is usually pan-fried on the stove with a rich brown gravy.

Serving: Meatloaf recipes vary with their sauces and gravy served. Some do ketchup, some combine ketchup with brown sugar to form a glaze as it bakes, and some use gravy.

Ingredients for Lipton Meatloaf Recipe

• Ground Beef
• Bread Crumbs, Cracker Crumbs, or Crushed Corn Flakes
• Tomato Sauce
• Lipton Onion Soup Mix
• Large Eggs
• Garlic Powder
• Salt
• Black Pepper
• Water, for the pan
• Brown Sugar
• Ketchup

How to Make Classic Lipton Meatloaf

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a 13″ x 9 ” casserole dish (or a baking sheet if it can hold ½ cup water without spilling) with non-stick cooking spray.

• Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, tomato sauce, Lipton onion soup mix, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.

• Place the meat mixture into the casserole dish and form into a loaf shape about 3″ high. Add ½ cup of water around the meatloaf pan to prevent it from drying out.

• Bake in the oven for 50-60 minutes until the juices run clear and the center of the meatloaf is no longer pink when sliced into. Another way to check is if a meat thermometer inserted into the center reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

• While the meatloaf cooks, prepare the sauce by adding ketchup and brown sugar to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 20-30 seconds and stir. Top meatloaf with sauce and slice to serve.

Side Dishes

• Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic and comforting side dish. You can add butter, cream, garlic, or cheese for extra flavor.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roast vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, and pearl onions with olive oil, garlic, and thyme. The caramelized edges add a delicious touch.
• Sautéed Bacon, Green Beans, and Mushrooms: Sautéed or steamed green beans with a sprinkle of almonds or lemon zest are a light and fresh option.
• Instant Pot Macaroni and Cheese: Indulge in the rich and cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese. It’s a kid-friendly favorite too.
• Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans are a classic choice that complements the heartiness of meatloaf.
• Cornbread: Cornbread or corn muffins are a tasty and slightly sweet accompaniment to meatloaf.
• Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatloaf.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Baked or fried sweet potato fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to regular fries.
• Quinoa or Rice: A simple side of quinoa or rice can soak up the flavors of the meatloaf and add a nice textural contrast.

Storage

Refrigerator

If meatloaf is properly stored in the refrigerator, it lasts for 3 to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to help maintain its freshness.

Freezer

Uncooked meatloaf can last in the freezer for up to 3-4 months for best quality in a freezer-safe container, like a freezer bag.

The USDA generally recommends consuming cooked dishes, including meatloaf, within 2 to 3 months when stored in the freezer.

How to Reheat Meatloaf in the Oven

I prefer reheating leftovers in the microwave because it’s the easiest and most convenient, especially for individual slices. You can also bake in the oven to reheat all of the leftovers for your whole family.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to reheat meatloaf in the oven:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F. If it’s too hot, it can dry it out.
   • If you have a whole loaf, consider cutting it into individual slices of meatloaf. This ensures even reheating and quicker cooking.
   • To prevent the meatloaf from drying out, you can add a small amount of moisture before wrapping it in foil. Add a tablespoon of broth, gravy, ketchup, or tomato sauce.
   • Seal the meatloaf and pan with aluminum foil tightly to keep moisture from escaping.
   • Cook a whole meatloaf for about 20 minutes to heat through the center whereas individual slices can take about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
   • Leftover meatloaf is great in meatloaf sandwiches!

Recommended Recipes

• 30-Minute Air Fryer Meatloaf
• Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast
• Instant Pot Hamburger Helper
• Maid-Rite Copycat Recipe
• Meatloaf Marsala
• Shepherd's Pie with Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes