Ann Landers' Meat Loaf(Microwave)
A flavorful microwave meatloaf with a savory blend of ground beef, onion soup, and tomato sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal for busy households.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except tomato sauce and mix thoroughly.
- Place the mixture in a 10-inch glass pie plate and shape into a wreath, leaving a 2-inch open area in the center.
- Cover with waxed paper and microwave on 70% (Medium-high) for 16 to 17 minutes, rotating the dish twice during cooking.
- Use a baster to remove any grease that may have collected in the bottom of the plate.
- Place tomato sauce over the top and microwave (uncovered) on 70% for 4 to 6 minutes, rotating the dish once.
- Let set for 5 to 7 minutes before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding chopped bell peppers or grated carrots to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, substitute the dry onion soup mix with fresh diced onions or onion powder. If you prefer a spicier version, add a dash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños. This meat loaf is versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste, similar to other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meat loaf with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic meal. It also pairs beautifully with Skyline Chili for a hearty dinner. For a lighter option, consider a fresh garden salad alongside. Feel free to drizzle additional catsup or barbecue sauce over the top for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meat loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meat loaf and microwave on a microwave-safe plate, covered with a damp paper towel, for about 2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ann Landers' Meat Loaf(Microwave) contains roughly 743 calories, with 25g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (50% of the Daily Value), calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1057mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground round steak or lean hamburger meat. Just keep in mind that turkey may result in a slightly drier meat loaf, so consider adding a bit more moisture, such as additional catsup or a spoonful of olive oil, to maintain the texture.
How do I know when the meat loaf is fully cooked?
The meat loaf is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) as measured with a meat thermometer. If you're unsure, you can also check that the juices run clear when pierced with a fork. Allowing it to rest before slicing helps retain moisture.
Can I freeze this meat loaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the meat loaf before or after cooking. If freezing before cooking, form the loaf and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. If freezing after cooking, allow it to cool completely, then slice and store in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).