Microwave Oven Meat Loaf
Juicy microwave meat loaves with savory tomato topping, combining ground beef, bread crumbs, and onions for a quick, satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients well.
- Make 6 small meat loaves from the mixture.
- Place the loaves in a glass baking dish.
- Cover with plastic wrap.
- Cook on High for 8 minutes.
- Drain off all fat.
- Pour one can of tomato soup over the meat.
- Cover with plastic wrap and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. If you don't have canned milk, regular milk or even broth can be used as a substitute. For a healthier option, you can replace half of the ground beef with ground turkey or a combination of lean meats. Keep an eye on cooking times as microwaves vary in power.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a hearty meal. A fresh garden salad or roasted Brussels sprouts also pair nicely. For an easy weeknight dinner, consider making a sandwich with the leftovers, adding your favorite condiments. This dish is a comforting choice that fits well within classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meat loaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Oven Meat Loaf contains roughly 493 calories, with 15g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (104% of the Daily Value), iron (70% of the Daily Value), and calcium (48% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1370mg per serving (60% 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 lean ground beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use lean ground beef, but keep in mind that it may yield a drier meat loaf. Adding a bit more canned milk or incorporating some grated vegetables can help retain moisture. This technique can also be applied to other beef recipes, ensuring they remain juicy and flavorful.
How can I make this meat loaf spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce into the meat mixture. For a zesty twist, you can also incorporate diced bell peppers or spicy mustard. This will give the meat loaf a flavorful kick while still keeping it family-friendly.
Can I freeze the meat loaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meat loaf or the cooked leftovers. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.
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).