Sheet Pan Meatloaf

Imagine the savory aroma of a perfectly baked meatloaf wafting through your kitchen, a classic comfort food that warms the soul.

This Sheet Pan Meatloaf is incredibly easy to prepare, offering a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

As the ingredients meld together, the flavors deepen, transforming simple pantry staples into a delightful, hearty dish.

Let’s bring this comforting meal to life together!

Kitchen Tools Required

  • 1 sheet pan
  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 set of measuring cups
  • 1 set of measuring spoons
  • 1 spatula
  • 1 knife

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup ketchup, divided
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking the Sheet Pan Meatloaf, follow this timeline:

  1. Reading Time: 5 minutes
    • Start by reading through the entire recipe to understand the steps and gather all necessary ingredients and equipment.
  2. Preparation Time: 15 minutes
    • 0:00 to 5:00 – Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • 5:00 to 10:00 – In the mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
    • 10:00 to 12:00 – Mix the ingredients until just combined.
    • 12:00 to 14:00 – Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it onto the sheet pan.
    • 14:00 to 15:00 – In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce, then brush it over the meatloaf.
  3. Cooking Time: 40 minutes
    • 15:00 to 55:00 – Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
  4. Resting Time: 5 minutes
    • 55:00 to 60:00 – Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest before slicing.

Note: Adjust the timeline if you find yourself needing a bit more or less time for certain tasks.

Recipe Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Mix the ingredients until just combined.

Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it onto the sheet pan.

In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce.

Brush the ketchup mixture over the top of the meatloaf.

Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Serving Tips

  • Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing that complements the savory flavors of the meatloaf.
  • Steamed Green Beans: Adds a fresh and crunchy contrast to the hearty meatloaf.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Enhance the meal with a colorful mix of seasonal vegetables.
  • Caesar Salad: Offers a crisp and invigorating side to balance the richness of the meatloaf.
  • Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce and completing the comfort food experience.

Storage

To store leftover sheet pan meatloaf, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container.

Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Freezing

To freeze sheet pan meatloaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

Label with the date.

Store in the freezer for up to three months for best quality.

Reheating

To reheat sheet pan meatloaf, slice it into portions.

Cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

Alternatively, microwave on medium power until heated through.

Final Thoughts

Sheet Pan Meatloaf is a simple and delicious American dish. It combines ground beef with flavorful ingredients and bakes it to perfection.

This meal isn’t only easy to prepare but also perfect for a cozy family dinner.

By using a sheet pan, the meatloaf cooks evenly and achieves a lovely crust.

Remember to let it rest before slicing to keep it moist. For those looking to experiment, adding herbs or vegetables can enhance the taste and nutrition.

Enjoy the satisfaction of making a classic meal with minimal effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?

You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef, but adjust cooking techniques. Turkey is leaner, so reduce cook time to avoid dryness. Guarantee internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Consider adding extra breadcrumbs for moisture retention.

How Do I Prevent the Meatloaf From Drying Out?

You can prevent dryness by not overmixing and ensuring a 160°F internal temperature. Add moisture with milk and breadcrumbs. Rest the meatloaf for 5 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute, enhancing tenderness.

What Side Dishes Pair Well With Sheet Pan Meatloaf?

Pair your dish with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting touch. Sautéed green beans with garlic add freshness, while roasted carrots bring sweetness. Balance flavors with a tangy coleslaw, ensuring each side complements without overpowering.

Can I Make the Meatloaf Mixture Ahead of Time?

You can prepare the meatloaf mixture up to a day in advance. Combine all ingredients, form the loaf, and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator to let flavors meld beautifully before baking.

How Can I Add a Smoky Flavor to the Meatloaf?

You can add a smoky flavor by mixing 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika into the meatloaf mixture. Alternatively, use 2 tablespoons of barbecue sauce instead of ketchup on top before baking for a delicious smoky twist.

sheet pan dinner recipe

Sheet Pan Meatloaf

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • 1 sheet pan
  • 1 Mixing bowl
  • 1 Set of measuring cups
  • 1 set of measuring spoons
  • 1 Spatula
  • 1 Knife

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup onion finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup ketchup divided
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Mix the ingredients until just combined.
  • Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it onto the sheet pan.
  • In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce.
  • Brush the ketchup mixture over the top of the meatloaf.
  • Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
  • Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Notes

For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like parsley or thyme into the meat mixture. To ensure even cooking, form the meatloaf into a uniform shape, and do not overmix the ingredients to maintain a tender texture. If desired, add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the mixture for additional nutrition and flavor.
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