Our Favorite Meat Loaf(Microwave)
A quick and flavorful microwave meat loaf with a tangy tomato glaze, perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying family dinners with savory, sweet, and tangy notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine tomato sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, and mustard in a small bowl. Set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine egg, minced onion, cracker crumbs, ground beef, salt, and pepper.
- Add half of the tomato mixture to the meat mixture and blend thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into an oval loaf and place in a microwave-safe oblong dish.
- Make a depression in the top of the loaf.
- Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top of the meat loaf.
- Cook uncovered in the microwave for 18 to 20 minutes or until the center is cooked.
- Cover the meat loaf and let it stand for about 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful meat loaf, consider adding chopped bell peppers or garlic to the mixture. If you don’t have saltine crackers, crushed breadcrumbs or oats can be used as substitutes. To enhance the dish, try mixing in some Worcestershire sauce for added depth. Ensure the meat loaf is shaped evenly for uniform cooking in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions
This meat loaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort meal. For a twist, serve it with a side of macaroni and cheese or a fresh garden salad. You can also top slices with additional tomato sauce or barbecue sauce for extra flavor, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meat loaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meat loaf and microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Our Favorite Meat Loaf(Microwave) contains roughly 300 calories, with 12g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (134% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (75% of the Daily Value), and calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 777mg per serving (34% 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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, though the texture and flavor will vary. Just ensure it's cooked thoroughly to a safe temperature. Mixing different meats can also add unique flavors, so feel free to experiment with blends.
How do I know when the meat loaf is done cooking?
The meat loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the center should no longer be pink, and juices should run clear. Letting it rest before slicing helps retain moisture as well.
Can I make the meat loaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat 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. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
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).