Meatloaf is Mushy: Causes and Fixes

Meatloaf is a delicious go-to meal, but crafting the perfect meatloaf isn’t always as easy as some think. The recipe can go wrong in several ways, and discovering that your meatloaf is mushy and watery instead of firm and simple to slice can be a frustrating experience.

But what causes this to happen in the first place?

The most common reason meatloaf is mushy is too much liquid added to the mixture. Too much liquid will stop the meatloaf from baking and cause the meat to boil instead. There’s no need to worry, though, as there’s a solution to this problem. If there is too much liquid before you put it in the oven, you can squeeze out the excess. However, doing so can be difficult, so it’s best to be cautious about how much liquid you add from the beginning. Adding more to your mixture is always easier than taking some out.

Another common reason meatloaf is mushy is too much filler, like breadcrumbs, bread, and oatmeal. Too much filler will stop it from baking correctly and becoming a fully formed meatloaf. So, just as you would reduce the amount of liquid you use, reduce the amount of filler you use.

If it’s too late and you’ve already cooked your meatloaf, but it’s still mushy, do not throw it back in the oven. Remove the meatloaf from the pan you’ve been using and put it on a flat sheet pan instead. This change allows the liquid to spread more evenly to help the meatloaf cook, but it won’t look like the meatloaf you see in photos. The result will look a little flatter. However, the meat will be fully cooked and firmer.