Delicious Microwave Meat Loaf
A quick and flavorful microwave meatloaf featuring seasoned ground beef, topped with melted cheese, perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground chuck, eggs, flavored bread crumbs, minced onion, salt, pepper, catsup, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl.
- Arrange the mixture in a donut shape in a glass pie plate.
- Cover with wax paper.
- Microwave at Medium for 10 minutes.
- Rotate the pie plate 1/2 turn if necessary for even cooking.
- Remove drippings and sprinkle grated cheese on top.
- Microwave on High for 2 minutes.
- Let stand, covered, for 6 to 8 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, swap ground chuck for ground turkey or chicken. You can also use gluten-free bread crumbs if needed. Make sure to season well with salt and pepper, as they enhance the flavor. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. To prevent splatter, use a microwave-safe cover instead of wax paper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this microwave meat loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or Brussels Sprouts With Cream And Garlic for a comforting meal. A fresh garden salad adds a nice crunch. You can also pair it with your favorite dipping sauces for extra flavor. Leftovers make great sandwiches the next day!
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warm, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Delicious Microwave Meat Loaf contains roughly 597 calories, with 11g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (23% of the Daily Value), protein (22% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2363mg per serving (103% 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 other types of meat for this meat loaf?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version. Just ensure to adjust cooking times if necessary, as leaner meats may cook faster.
How do I know when the meat loaf is cooked through?
The best way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F for ground beef or 165°F for poultry. If you don't have a thermometer, ensure the meat is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.
Can I freeze the meat loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meat loaf either before or after cooking. If freezing uncooked, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. If cooked, store in an airtight container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).