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Marvelous Microwave Meatloaf: Quick, Juicy, and Easy

Marvelous Microwave Meatloaf: Quick, Juicy, and Easy

A tender, family-friendly meatloaf prepared in the microwave with everyday ingredients and an optional brown sugar ketchup glaze. The low shape helps it cook evenly and keeps dinner ready in about 25 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

Meatloaf
  • 1 lb (450 g) Ground beef, preferably 85–90% lean
  • 1/2 cup Quick-cooking oats or plain dry breadcrumbs
  • 1 large Large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup Milk
  • 1/4 cup Finely chopped onion
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup Ketchup mixed into the meatloaf
Optional Glaze
  • 1/4 cup Ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Prepared yellow mustard

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Combine the ground beef, oats or breadcrumbs, lightly beaten egg, milk, onion, salt, pepper, and 1/4 cup ketchup in a bowl. Mix only until the ingredients are evenly combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into a low oval loaf or a ring in a microwave-safe shallow dish. Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or vented plastic wrap.
  3. Microwave on HIGH for 10–12 minutes. Rotate the dish halfway through cooking if your microwave does not have a turntable.
  4. For the optional glaze, stir together 1/4 cup ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard. Spread it over the meatloaf during the last 1–2 minutes of cooking, or apply it after cooking.
  5. Check the thickest part of the center with an instant-read thermometer; ground beef should reach 160°F (71°C). Let the meatloaf stand loosely covered for 5 minutes before slicing.

Notes

A ring shape or low, wide oval cooks more evenly than a thick traditional loaf. Microwave times vary with wattage, loaf thickness, dish shape, and quantity, so always verify the internal temperature. Refrigerate leftovers promptly and reheat individual slices until hot.