Microwave Meat Loaf Ring
A savory microwave meat loaf ring with fresh herbs and vegetables, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or family gatherings, offering a tender, flavorful experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thoroughly combine all ingredients except catsup.
- Pack lightly into a 9-inch glass cake dish or quiche dish, making a well in the center.
- Place a custard cup upside-down in the center of the dish.
- Microwave on high for about 30 minutes or until cooked through.
- Remove from microwave, spread catsup over the top, and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for ground beef. You can also enhance the dish by adding spices like paprika or Worcestershire sauce. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, mix a bit of brown sugar into the catsup before spreading it on top. This meatloaf pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or the tangy flavors found in Meatballs In Tangy Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf ring with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It also goes well with mashed potatoes or rice. For a unique twist, consider serving with a dollop of your favorite barbecue sauce. This dish is versatile and works well in lunchboxes as leftovers.
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 warmed through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes to retain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Meat Loaf Ring contains roughly 652 calories, with 15g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2367mg 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 make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it in the dish, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before microwaving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes for a convenient meal option.
What can I use instead of tomato juice?
If you don't have tomato juice on hand, you can use vegetable juice or even a mixture of canned tomatoes and water. Alternatively, a splash of beef broth can work in a pinch, adding more depth to the flavor while keeping it moist.
Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
Certainly! Feel free to add finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms to the mixture for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to keep the total amount of veggies around the same quantity as the recipe calls for to maintain the right texture.
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).