Sheet Pan Meatloaf: The Ultimate Weeknight Dinner Solution

Introduction

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to any dinner table. However, traditional meatloaf recipes can take a long time to cook, often requiring over an hour in the oven. Enter Sheet Pan Meatloaf, a game-changing twist that delivers the same hearty flavors in a fraction of the time. By spreading the meat mixture into a thinner layer on a sheet pan, this recipe cuts down on cooking time while ensuring every bite is deliciously browned and flavorful. Plus, you can cook your sides—like roasted potatoes and vegetables—on the same pan for an effortless one-pan meal.

In this article, we’ll walk you through an easy, foolproof Sheet Pan Meatloaf recipe, complete with expert tips, variations, and answers to common FAQs.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or traditional)

• 1 egg, beaten

• ½ cup milk

• ¼ cup ketchup

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

For the Roasted Vegetables:

• 1 lb baby potatoes, halved

• 2 cups baby carrots

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp garlic powder

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, milk, ketchup, diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika.

2. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until just combined—do not overmix or the meatloaf will be tough.

3. Transfer the mixture to the sheet pan and shape it into a rectangular loaf, about 1 ½ inches thick in the center.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.

2. Spread a generous amount over the meatloaf, reserving some for basting later.

Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables

1. In a medium bowl, toss the baby potatoes and carrots with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

2. Arrange the vegetables around the meatloaf on the sheet pan in a single layer.

Step 5: Bake

1. Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.

2. Halfway through, brush the meatloaf with the remaining glaze.

3. Check for doneness using a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

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

2. Serve with the roasted vegetables and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Sheet Pan Meatloaf

• Use a mix of meats: A combination of ground beef and pork adds extra flavor and tenderness.

• Add moisture: Using milk and breadcrumbs ensures the meatloaf stays juicy.

• Shape it evenly: Keeping an even thickness prevents overcooked edges and undercooked centers.

• Customize the glaze: Try BBQ sauce or honey mustard for a different twist.

• Swap out vegetables: Use sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini for variety.

Variations

Turkey Sheet Pan Meatloaf

Swap ground beef for ground turkey and add an extra egg for moisture.

Cheesy Meatloaf

Stuff the center of the meatloaf with shredded cheddar or mozzarella before baking.

Italian-Style Meatloaf

Add ¼ cup grated Parmesan and a teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the meat mixture.

FAQs

1. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it on the sheet pan, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I freeze sheet pan meatloaf?

Absolutely. Wrap the uncooked meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

3. How do I prevent a dry meatloaf?

Ensure you use 80/20 ground beef for fat content, don’t overmix the meat, and include milk and breadcrumbs to retain moisture.

4. What if I don’t have a sheet pan?

You can use a baking dish instead, though the cooking time may be slightly longer.

5. Can I add other seasonings?

Yes! Feel free to customize with chili powder, cayenne pepper, or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

6. What side dishes go well with meatloaf?

Aside from roasted vegetables, try mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

Sheet Pan Meatloaf is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a classic meal with minimal effort. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or feeding a hungry family. Plus, the all-in-one cooking method means fewer dishes to wash! Try this recipe today and enjoy a flavorful, juicy meatloaf in just 30 minutes.