Introduction
Are you looking for a delicious twist on a classic comfort food? Look no further than Easy Sheet Pan Meatloaf. This recipe takes all the flavors you love from traditional meatloaf and simplifies the cooking process by baking it on a sheet pan. With its juicy and flavorful meat, caramelized edges, and convenient one-pan cleanup, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to love this Easy Sheet Pan Meatloaf recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the flavors to suit your taste preferences. Add some extra spices, herbs, or even cheese to take it up a notch. You can also make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Ingredients
To make this Easy Sheet Pan Meatloaf, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
Feel free to make any ingredient substitutions based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs, almond milk, or even replace the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make the Easy Sheet Pan Meatloaf:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, diced onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared sheet pan and shape it into a loaf shape, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is browned.
- Remove the sheet pan from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Tips: For added flavor, you can brush some extra ketchup or barbecue sauce on top of the meatloaf before baking. This will create a delicious glaze and enhance the caramelization.
Expert Tips for Success
Here are some expert tips to ensure your Easy Sheet Pan Meatloaf turns out perfectly:
- Be sure not to overmix the meat mixture. Overmixing can result in a denser and tougher meatloaf. Mix until all the ingredients are just combined.
- Using fresh breadcrumbs instead of dried ones will yield a moister meatloaf.
- If you prefer a spicier meatloaf, you can add some chopped jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- Letting the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking will help it retain its juices and make it easier to slice.
Variations and Substitutions
While this Easy Sheet Pan Meatloaf recipe is delicious as is, feel free to get creative and make it your own. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:
- Add some grated cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, to the meat mixture for an extra cheesy twist.
- If you prefer a sweeter glaze, you can mix together some brown sugar, ketchup, and mustard and spread it on top of the meatloaf before baking.
- To make it a bit healthier, you can replace the breadcrumbs with rolled oats or quinoa flakes.
- If you’re following a keto or low-carb diet, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Sheet Pan Meatloaf is delicious on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic comfort food meal.
- Pair it with a fresh green salad and some crusty bread for a lighter option.
- Make meatloaf sandwiches by slicing it and serving it on toasted bread with some lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This can help save time on busy weeknights.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze any leftover meatloaf. Slice it into individual portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store them in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
A: Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey for the ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that ground turkey has less fat, so your meatloaf may be slightly less juicy.
Final Thoughts
Easy Sheet Pan Meatloaf is a delicious and convenient twist on a classic comfort food. With its flavorful meat, crispy edges, and easy cleanup, it’s a recipe that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is a winner. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting flavors of this timeless dish.
We hope you enjoyed this recipe! Share your experience with us in the comments below and let us know how it turned out for you.
Easy Sheet Pan Meatloaf: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
A delicious twist on a classic comfort food, this Easy Sheet Pan Meatloaf simplifies the cooking process by baking it on a sheet pan. With juicy and flavorful meat, caramelized edges, and convenient cleanup, this dish is a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, diced onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared sheet pan and shape it into a loaf shape, making sure it's evenly distributed.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is browned.
- Remove the sheet pan from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Facts
