This Sheet Pan Meatloaf and Potatoes is a cozy dinner that makes cooking easy and fun! Juicy meatloaf sits beside fluffy potatoes, all cooked together.
I love how everything bakes at once, so there’s less mess. Plus, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want comfort food without too much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I used 80% lean ground beef for the ideal balance of flavor and moisture. If you prefer a leaner option, you could use ground turkey or chicken. Just keep in mind that the meatloaf may be drier with lower fat content.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work great here, but if you’re gluten-free, swap them with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also use crushed crackers as a substitute, which adds a nice flavor!
Potatoes: Baby potatoes roast beautifully, but if you don’t have them, choose Yukon Gold or regular potatoes cut into chunks. Sweet potatoes are also a wonderful alternative for a slightly different flavor profile.
Ketchup: Ketchup adds sweetness and moisture. You can substitute it with barbecue sauce or tomato sauce, but more sauce will lead to a softer meatloaf texture. Try a homemade tomato glaze for a fun twist!
Broccoli: Feel free to play around with other vegetables, like green beans, carrots, or bell peppers. Just make sure to cut them to a similar size for even cooking.
How Do I Shape the Perfect Meatloaf?
Shaping the meatloaf correctly is key to even cooking. Make sure to mix the ingredients just until combined—overmixing can make it tough. When shaping it, use your hands to form a loaf that’s about 2-3 inches tall. This helps it cook evenly.
- Place the loaf in the center of the sheet pan, ensuring there’s space for the veggies around it.
- You can use the back of a spatula to smooth out the top, which helps it cook nicely.
Lastly, spreading ketchup on top adds flavor and a lovely glaze. Enjoy your delicious meatloaf, and remember, it’s all about keeping things simple and fun!
Sheet Pan Meatloaf And Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (plus additional slices for roasting)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup milk
- ¼ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Roasted Vegetables:
- 1 lb baby potatoes, whole
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs or dried oregano
- 1 cup broccoli florets
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 40-50 minutes to bake. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in about an hour, perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when you put your meal in, helping everything cook evenly. Lightly grease a large rimmed sheet pan to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Meatloaf Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, ¼ cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to combine everything gently, just until it’s mixed. Be careful not to overmix, or your meatloaf might turn out tough!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Take the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf form. Place it right in the center of the greased sheet pan. This helps it cook properly alongside the veggies.
4. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a separate bowl, toss the baby potatoes with olive oil, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Then, scatter them around the meatloaf on the sheet pan. The oil and herbs will help them get crispy and flavorful!
5. Add the Broccoli:
Distribute the broccoli florets and some onion slices around the potatoes on the pan, ensuring everything has enough space to roast nicely.
6. Add Ketchup to the Meatloaf:
Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf. This adds a lovely glaze and extra flavor while cooking.
7. Roast It All Together:
Carefully place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for about 40-50 minutes. You want the meatloaf to reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), and the potatoes should be tender and golden.
8. Optional Broiling for Extra Color:
If you’d like a gorgeous brown color, turn on the broiler for an extra 2-3 minutes at the end. Just keep a close eye to avoid burning!
9. Let It Rest:
Once done, remove the sheet pan from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for about 5 minutes. This helps it stay juicy when you slice it.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish the meal with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm with all the roasted potatoes, broccoli, and onions. Enjoy your hearty, delicious sheet pan meal!
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef. Just be mindful that the meatloaf may be leaner, so consider adding a bit more moisture, like an extra egg or a splash of broth.
What Should I Do If My Meatloaf Is Falling Apart?
If your meatloaf isn’t holding together, it could be due to not enough binding ingredients. Next time, try adding another egg or a bit more breadcrumbs to help it firm up!
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can mix the meatloaf and prepare the vegetables in advance. Cover them and keep them in the fridge for up to a day. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. To keep the meatloaf moist, add a splash of broth before reheating!
