Fifteen Minute Meat Loaf
A quick and hearty meatloaf with rich beef flavor, complemented by a tangy tomato sauce glaze. The dish combines savory, sweet, and umami notes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners that satisfy all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, chopped onion, chopped green pepper (if using), and half of the tomato sauce.
- Press the mixture into a greased 9 x 12 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Bake on the lowest shelf in a hot oven at 450°F for 10 minutes.
- Broil for 5 minutes more until browned.
- While the meat is cooking, combine the remaining tomato sauce, sugar, and Worcestershire sauce in a saucepan.
- Bring the sauce to a boil and boil for 3 minutes.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked meatloaf or serve on the side as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker prep, use pre-chopped onions and peppers. If you want a little extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or herbs like thyme or oregano. Ground turkey or chicken can be a lean substitute for ground beef. If you prefer a spicier dish, add some hot sauce to the sauce mixture. This meatloaf recipe is versatile and can be easily adjusted to personal tastes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic meal. It pairs beautifully with Cabbage Lasagna(Low-Fat Recipe) or a fresh garden salad for a lighter option. Consider topping with additional tomato sauce or a sprinkle of cheese before broiling for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover it with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave slices for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fifteen Minute Meat Loaf contains roughly 298 calories, with 12g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (79% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 876mg per serving (38% 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 freeze meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze meatloaf either before or after cooking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat as directed.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or tomato paste mixed with water. Alternatively, barbecue sauce can add a sweet and tangy flavor to the meatloaf. Adjust the sugar in the recipe accordingly to balance the flavors.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check if the meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F in the center. If you don't have a thermometer, ensure the meatloaf is browned on the outside and firm to the touch, with no pink remaining in the middle.
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).