Sheet Pan Meatloaf

Culinary Brilliance Unveiled: Mastering the Art of Sheet Pan Meatloaf Extravaganza

Embark on a gastronomic adventure with our Sheet Pan Meatloaf – a culinary masterpiece that redefines the classic comfort of meatloaf. This recipe transcends traditional boundaries by elevating simplicity with the convenience of a sheet pan. Join us as we guide you through the intricacies of crafting the perfect Sheet Pan Meatloaf, where savory flavors, moist texture, and minimal cleanup converge for a delightful dining experience.

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

  1. 2 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
  2. 1 cup breadcrumbs
  3. 1/2 cup milk
  4. 2 large eggs
  5. 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  6. 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
  7. 1/4 cup finely chopped carrot
  8. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  9. 1/4 cup ketchup
  10. 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  11. 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  12. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  13. Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Glaze:

  1. 1/2 cup ketchup
  2. 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  3. 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

For the Vegetables:

  1. 4 cups baby potatoes, halved
  2. 2 cups baby carrots
  3. 1 tablespoon olive oil
  4. Salt and black pepper to taste
  5. Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
    • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, chopped onion, celery, carrot, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
    • Mix the ingredients until well combined, but avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
  3. Shape the Meatloaf:
    • On a parchment-lined sheet pan, shape the meatloaf mixture into a rectangular loaf shape, ensuring it fits within the pan dimensions.
  4. Prepare the Glaze:
    • In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard to create the glaze.
  5. Glaze and Assemble:
    • Brush the glaze over the shaped meatloaf, ensuring an even coating.
    • Surround the meatloaf with halved baby potatoes and baby carrots on the sheet pan.
    • Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables and season with salt and black pepper.
  6. Bake to Perfection:
    • Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C).
  7. Garnish and Rest:
    • Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
    • Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
  8. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Serve slices of the sheet pan meatloaf alongside the roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Cheese-Stuffed Surprise:
    • Elevate your meatloaf by incorporating a layer of cheese in the center for a gooey, flavorful surprise when sliced.
  • Mushroom Medley:
    • Enhance the umami factor by adding sautéed mushrooms to the meatloaf mixture.
  • Sweet Potato Swap:
    • Substitute baby potatoes with sweet potatoes for a twist on the classic side.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

  • Keto Version:
    • Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
    • Opt for a sugar-free ketchup and use a low-carb sweetener in the glaze.
  • Low-Carb Version:
    • Choose a lower-carb vegetable medley like broccoli or cauliflower.
    • Reduce the quantity of carrots in the recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A1: Absolutely! Ground turkey is a versatile substitute that offers a leaner option while still delivering great flavor.

Q2: Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance? A2: Yes, you can mix the ingredients and shape the meatloaf on the sheet pan, covering it tightly and refrigerating until ready to bake.

Q3: What’s the purpose of resting the meatloaf before slicing? A3: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meatloaf when sliced.

Q4: Can I use a different glaze for the meatloaf? A4: Certainly! Experiment with barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or a balsamic glaze for unique flavor profiles.

Q5: Can I use larger potatoes and carrots? A5: Yes, you can use larger vegetables, but ensure they are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.

In conclusion, our Sheet Pan Meatloaf recipe is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and convenience in the kitchen. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this dish is a celebration of classic comfort elevated to new heights. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or explore keto and low-carb adaptations, the Sheet Pan Meatloaf promises a satisfying and delicious meal. Let the aroma of a perfectly baked meatloaf and roasted vegetables fill your kitchen as you embark on a culinary journey that brings joy to every bite. It’s not just a meal; it’s a symphony of flavors orchestrated on a sheet pan!