Microwave Meatloaf
Cooking meatloaf in the microwave is an easy way to enjoy this classic comfort food without the long cook time. For a moist and flavorful filling, we took inspiration from the queen of home cooking, Ina Garten, and made a take on her meatloaf in the microwave. Perfect for busy weeknights, this version delivers the same rich taste you love, but with far less hassle. As Ina would say: "How easy is that?"
All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwave and home kitchens to make sure they work— and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.
What You’ll Need
What You’ll Need
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The Small Square Dish
Flash-steam small portions of food in the microwave, evenly reheat leftovers, or store food in the fridge with the lid’s airtight seal.
The Medium Shallow Dish
The Anyhand Mitts
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 cup (120g) chopped yellow onions (about 1 onion)
- ¼ teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons chicken stock or broth
- 1 teaspoon tomato paste
- ¾ pound (430g) ground beef
- ¼ cup plain dry bread crumbs
- 1 egg yolk, beaten
- ¼ cup ketchup
Preparation
- Combine olive oil and onions in a Square dish. Cover with the lid (knob lifted) and cook in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Add thyme leaves, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and tomato paste to the onions, stirring to coat evenly. Let cool slightly.
- Add beef, breadcrumbs, and eggs, and mix gently with a fork or use your hands, making sure to fully incorporate the onions. Gently pack the mixture into the dish, pressing to create an even surface. Spread the ketchup evenly on top of the meatloaf.
- Cover with lid (knob lifted) and cook for 10-11 minutes or until the meat is fully cooked.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving suggestions & tips
- Serve with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed peas.
- To make a spicy version, add some chili flakes to the meat mixture and hot sauce to the ketchup topping.
- For a boost of veggies, add shredded carrots or peas to the beef mixture. Discover more vegetable recipes by exploring our collection here!
Recipe notes
- It’s important to use lean ground beef (at least 80%) in this recipe to avoid excess fat pooling in the bottom of the dish.
- Want a leaner meatloaf? Try this recipe with ground turkey or chicken.
- Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.
All You Need to Know About Making Meatloaf in the Microwave
Can I make meatloaf in the microwave?
Yes! Microwave meatloaf can be easily made in the microwave using the Anyday Square Dish. The microwave method not only cuts down the cooking time but also retains the juiciness and flavor of the meatloaf, making it a convenient way to enjoy this comfort food staple.
How do I know when meatloaf is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf to make sure it’s cooked. After the second cook time, check the center of the meatloaf. The temperature should reach at least 160°F (71°C). If needed, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until it reaches the proper temperature.
Can I substitute ground beef with other proteins in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with other proteins like ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Keep in mind that leaner meats like turkey or chicken may require shorter cooking times, so check the internal temperature frequently to avoid overcooking.
How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out in the microwave?
To make sure your meatloaf stays moist, mix the ingredients gently and don’t overwork the meat. The Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and eggs help retain moisture. Additionally, cooking the meatloaf with the Anyday lid (knob lifted) traps in steam, keeping the meatloaf tender.
Can I make the meatloaf ahead of time?
You can absolutely prepare and cook the meatloaf ahead of time. Once fully cooked, let the meatloaf cool completely, then store it in the fridge in an Anyday Square dish for up to 4 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes per portion until warmed through. This makes it a perfect option for meal prepping or making dinner ahead of time!
