Main Dishes

BBQ Meatloaf Sheet Pan Dinner

BBQ Meatloaf Sheet Pan Dinner: A Flavor-Packed Feast for Busy Nights

Say goodbye to the dilemma of choosing between a hearty meal and a quick dinner with our BBQ Meatloaf Sheet Pan Dinner. This recipe combines the classic comfort of meatloaf with the convenience of a sheet pan dinner, all infused with the bold flavors of barbecue. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this one-pan wonder promises a delicious and fuss-free dining experience. Join us as we guide you through the steps of creating this mouthwatering meal that will have your family asking for seconds.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

  • 1.5 pounds ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Vegetables:

  • 4 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, green beans, etc.), chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, black pepper, and your favorite herbs (rosemary, thyme, or paprika) for seasoning

For the Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, barbecue sauce, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Shape the Meatloaf

  1. Transfer the meatloaf mixture onto the prepared sheet pan and shape it into a loaf, leaving space on one side for the vegetables.

Step 3: Prep the Vegetables

  1. In a large bowl, toss the chopped vegetables with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and your favorite herbs.
  2. Arrange the seasoned vegetables on the sheet pan beside the meatloaf.

Step 4: Glaze and Bake

  1. Brush the meatloaf with barbecue sauce, ensuring a generous coating.
  2. Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Broil for a Crispy Finish

  1. If desired, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve a crispy exterior on the meatloaf.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

  1. Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  2. Serve slices of the BBQ Meatloaf alongside the roasted vegetables.

Cook Notes

  • Choose a lean ground beef to minimize excess grease.
  • Customize the vegetables based on your preferences or seasonal availability.

Variations

Mashed Potato Topping

  • For a twist, spread a layer of mashed potatoes on top of the meatloaf before baking for a comforting twist.

Cheesy Surprise

  • Add a layer of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese inside the meatloaf for a gooey surprise in every bite.

Spicy Kick

  • Infuse heat by incorporating diced jalapeños into the meatloaf mixture or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Keto Version

For those on a keto journey, savor the flavor with these modifications:

Meatloaf Base:

  • Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb alternative.

Vegetable Choices:

  • Opt for low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.

Glaze:

  • Use a keto-friendly barbecue sauce with no added sugars.

Low-Carb Version

Trim down the carbs without compromising on taste:

Meatloaf Base:

  • Replace breadcrumbs with a combination of almond flour and grated Parmesan cheese.

Vegetable Choices:

  • Choose low-carb veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus.

Glaze:

  • Opt for a sugar-free barbecue sauce or make your own with low-carb sweeteners.

In conclusion, the BBQ Meatloaf Sheet Pan Dinner is a testament to the magic that happens when convenience meets flavor. Whether you follow the classic recipe, experiment with tempting variations, or opt for keto and low-carb adaptations, this sheet pan dinner is a versatile solution for busy evenings. Share it with your family, serve it at gatherings, or simply enjoy the simplicity of a delicious meal that requires minimal cleanup. Let the BBQ Meatloaf Sheet Pan Dinner become a go-to in your recipe repertoire, offering a symphony of flavors in every bite. Elevate your weeknight dinners with this hearty and satisfying dish that transforms the humble meatloaf into a star of the sheet pan stage.