Microwave Italian Meatloaf

I found a recipe for "Favorite Meatloaf" in a Microwave Cookbook many years ago. Over the years, I have modified this recipe, creating a spicy, low-sodium, and low-fat version. The result - Microwave Italian Meatloaf - is now a family favorite. Try it! It's quick, easy, and yummy-delicious!!


Ingredients:

1 - 8 ounce can tomato sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 medium onion, minced
1/2 cup cracker crumbs (about 12 -14 saltine crackers, crushed)
2-1/2 pounds ground chuck (See note below.)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (heaping)

1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder (heaping)

(Optional - 1/2 to 1 teaspoon mustard)

Directions:

Spray a micro-proof ring mold with Pam.

In a small bowl or cup, mix tomato sauce with brown sugar. Set aside.

Note: A little over 1/2 of the tomato sauce mixture will be added to the meat loaf mixture, and the rest will be used to top the meatloaf before micro-cooking.

In a large mixing bowl, crush crackers into crumbs. Using a glass tumbler or a masher is a great way to do this!

Break 2 eggs into the bowl; beat lightly with a fork.

Add minced onion, salt, Italian seasoning, and a little over 1/2 of the tomato sauce mixture. Mix with a spoon until blended. (Optional, stir in mustard.)

Add ground chuck and mix well until all ingredients are well blended. (I do this step with my hands.)

Place the meat mixture in the micro-proof ring mold. Press down evenly. Pour remaining tomato sauce mixture over the top and spread evenly.

Cook (uncovered) on Hi for approximately 18 minutes. If your microwave does not have a turntable, rotate the ring mold 1/2 turn at this time. Cook an additional 2 - 8 minutes on Hi until done (160 degrees and no longer pink inside). 

Total cooking time: about 20 - 26 minutes.

Remove from Microwave, cover, and let stand 5 to 10 minutes Drain the grease.

Additional Tips:

• You may substitute a combination of ground turkey and ground chuck for the ground chuck. If you use ground turkey only, add 2 Tablespoons water to the meat mixture to keep it moist.
• If you don't have a micro-proof ring mold, you may use a 2 quart micro-proof round casserole. It helps to set a micro-proof cup in the center.
• Cooking times may vary according to your microwave.
• Use Contadina tomato sauce and omit mustard for a low-acid version. 
• Drizzle ketchup on the top for extra flavor!
• This dish freezes well.

Yum!
Microwave Italian Meatloaf - great with baked Sweet Potatoes,
Shells & Cheese, and your favorite bread & green vegetables!

Updated June 28, 2023