This Sheet Pan Meatloaf and Potatoes is a cozy meal made all in one pan, making cleanup a breeze! The meatloaf is juicy and packed with flavor, while the potatoes get crispy and golden.
Honestly, the best part is how easy it is to whip up. Just mix, shape, and bake! Plus, you can enjoy a hearty dinner with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using an 80/20 blend gives the meatloaf great flavor and moisture. If you want a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken, but the texture might be a bit different.
Breadcrumbs: Simple white breadcrumbs work well, but panko can add crunch. For gluten-free, swap with crushed gluten-free crackers or oats.
Milk: Whole milk makes it creamy, but you can use low-fat milk or dairy-free milk for a lighter version. I’ve even used yogurt for a tangy twist!
Veggies: Broccolini adds a nice touch. Feel free to replace it with green beans, asparagus, or even Brussels sprouts. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How Do I Make Sure My Meatloaf Stays Moist?
To keep the meatloaf juicy, the key is to mix the ingredients gently. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture. Also, using moisture-rich ingredients like milk and onions helps.
- Combine the ingredients with your hands or a fork until just mixed. Avoid compacting.
- Shaping the loaf directly on the pan allows it to bake evenly.
Resting the meatloaf for a few minutes after baking also helps the juices redistribute, making each slice perfect!
What’s the Best Way to Get Crispy Potatoes?
Crispy, golden potatoes are all about the prep and cooking process. Here’s how:
- Ensure the cut sides are facing down when you place them on the pan. This helps them brown nicely.
- Toss with oil, salt, and pepper to get good coverage. An even coat will ensure they crisp up.
- Don’t overcrowd them on the pan; give them space to roast!
Adjusting the cooking time can also help; check them toward the end to avoid mushiness.
How to Make Sheet Pan Meatloaf and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
For the Vegetables:
- 1-2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
- 1 bunch broccolini, trimmed
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty meal will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 40-50 minutes to bake, plus a little resting time for the meatloaf. Altogether, you can expect to spend about 1 hour for this delicious dinner, with minimal cleanup since it all cooks on one sheet pan!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, line a large rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, whole milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Mix gently using your hands or a fork until everything is just combined. Remember, overmixing can make your meatloaf tough, so be gentle!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it right in the center of your prepared sheet pan. It should have enough space around it for the potatoes and broccolini.
4. Add the Potatoes:
In a small bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Arrange them around the meatloaf, cut sides facing down for that beautiful browning.
5. Toss in the Broccolini:
Take the broccolini and toss it with the remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place it on one side of the pan, fitting it alongside the meatloaf and potatoes.
6. Add Ketchup Topping:
Spread a nice layer of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf for that delicious glaze as it bakes.
7. Bake the Dish:
Put the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-50 minutes. The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and the potatoes are golden and tender. Keep an eye on the broccolini—if it cooks faster than the meatloaf, just take it out early!
8. Let It Rest:
When everything is done baking, remove the sheet pan from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to settle and makes slicing easier.
9. Plate and Garnish:
Slice the meatloaf and serve it warm alongside the crispy potatoes and vibrant broccolini. For a final touch, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over everything for pop and freshness.
Enjoy Your Meal!
Dig in and enjoy this hearty, comforting meal that requires very little cleanup. Perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can make for a lighter meatloaf. Just keep in mind it may be a bit drier, so consider adding an extra splash of milk or some finely grated vegetables for moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
No problem! You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice. Just ensure the consistency works well with the other ingredients to hold the meatloaf together.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, it’s best to warm gently in the oven or microwave, adding a bit of moisture if needed to keep it tender!
What Vegetables Can I Use Instead of Broccolini?
Feel free to swap broccolini with green beans, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts! Just adjust the cooking time as needed; some vegetables may cook faster or slower than broccolini.