Microwave Glazed Meat Loaf
A quick and flavorful microwave glazed meat loaf that combines savory ground meat with a tangy tomato glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights, it offers a tender texture with a sweet and savory topping, making it an easy crowd-pleaser for families and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground meat, beaten egg, milk, bread crumbs, chopped onion, salt, pepper, green pepper (if using), and tomato sauce together in a bowl.
- Be careful not to overmix to keep the meat loaf tender.
- Place the meat mixture into a glass or microwave-safe loaf dish.
- Microwave on Medium-high (70%) for 22 to 24 minutes until the meat is no longer pink.
- Allow the meat loaf to stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding Worcestershire sauce or your favorite herbs like thyme or oregano to the meat mixture. If you're short on milk, plain yogurt or sour cream can serve as a substitute. For a spicier kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Remember, overmixing can lead to a denser loaf, so mix just until combined.
Serving Suggestions
This microwave glazed meat loaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a comforting meal. For a refreshing contrast, serve with a crisp garden salad or roasted Brussels sprouts. You can also enjoy it cold in sandwiches or with a side of Baked Beans With Ground Meat for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. You can also slice and freeze portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Glazed Meat Loaf contains roughly 1148 calories, with 22g protein, 225g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value), iron (39% of the Daily Value), and calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2746mg per serving (119% 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 turkey or chicken instead of beef for this meat loaf?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly, so ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
What can I do if I don't have a microwave-safe loaf dish?
If you don't have a loaf dish, you can shape the meat mixture into a loaf on a microwave-safe plate. Just make sure to create a slight indentation in the center to help it cook evenly.
Is it possible to prepare the meat mixture in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When ready to cook, bring it to room temperature before microwaving for best results.
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).