Upgrade Your Meatloaf Game with This Baking Sheet Method

If you're like many individuals, you've likely prepared meatloaf using a conventional loaf pan. However, were you aware that there's a superior alternative? Not only are loaf pans challenging to clean due to glaze buildup on the sides and food residue in the corners, but they also restrict the surface area that can be coated with glaze. And let's be honest, who wouldn't want to maximize the potential of that delicious glaze?

Many home cooks opt for loaf pans because they help maintain the meatloaf's shape, while tradition may also play a role. Nonetheless, it turns out that this may not be the optimal approach. For the finest meatloaf possible, a baking tray is the way to go. Not only is it simpler to clean, but the meatloaf will hold its shape nicely when the ingredient proportions are right. Just ensure it's firm when you place it in the oven and remains so when you remove it.

 Faster cooking times possible

Another advantage of preparing meatloaf on a baking sheet is the flexibility in thickness, which influences cooking time. While you can still shape the loaf, you also have the option to flatten it out.

Ree Drummond, known as the Pioneer Woman, highlights the appeal of this pan-seared meatloaf: "The magic of this pan-seared meatloaf is that it cooks so quickly. When I make a regular meatloaf, it can take an hour and a half, sometimes longer, to fully cook in the middle... In this case, everything is thinly spread out, offering more surface area for the delicious sauce, rather than one massive piece of meat."

Having additional space for applying the sauce is undoubtedly a significant advantage. After all, what's more delightful than enjoying meatloaf with a sweet and tangy glaze in every bite?

 Space for parties

Depending on how wide you spread the meat, this method of cooking meatloaf is also a convenient way to prepare simple sheet pan dinners for weeknight gatherings. By leaving ample room for vegetables, you can prepare the entire meal in one go. Additionally, the vegetables will soak up the meat's cooking juices, enhancing the flavor while reducing the need for additional oil. Carrots, regular or sweet potatoes, onions, and cherry tomatoes (added towards the end) are all excellent choices, but nearly any vegetable will suffice. Don't forget to drizzle some of that delectable glaze over the vegetables to enhance their flavor.

If you've always stuck with your traditional loaf pan for making meatloaf, it's time to give the sheet pan method a try. You'll likely find it so appealing that you won't want to return to your old loaf pans.