Moist Meat Loaf(Microwave)
A quick and easy microwave meatloaf packed with savory flavors, perfect for a comforting family dinner or a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, ketchup, beaten egg, milk, minced onion, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into an 8 x 4-inch loaf and place in a microwave-safe dish.
- Microwave on Medium-high for 15 to 20 minutes or until the beef is no longer pink, rotating the dish a half turn halfway through cooking.
- Remove from microwave, cover with aluminum foil, and let stand for 5 minutes.
- Remove from dish, slice, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated cheese or chopped bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you don't have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oatmeal can be used as a substitute. Make sure the meatloaf mixture is not overworked to keep it tender. This recipe adapts well to various spices – try adding Italian seasoning for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a comforting meal. It pairs wonderfully with a tangy Mop Sauce drizzled on top for extra flavor. For a heartier dinner, consider serving it alongside Spicy Red Beans And Rice as a unique twist.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf 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, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can heat it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, which helps retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Moist Meat Loaf(Microwave) contains roughly 576 calories, with 12g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 465mg per serving (20% 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 ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so you may want to add a bit more moisture, like an extra tablespoon of milk or ketchup, to keep it from drying out.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done cooking?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. If you don't have one, make sure the meat is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and saves you time on cooking day.
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).