This Instant Pot Meatloaf is a quick and tasty dinner idea! Packed with ground meat, breadcrumbs, and a mix of seasonings, it’s a family favorite.
The best part? It cooks in a fraction of the time! I love serving it with mashed potatoes for a cozy meal. Plus, it’s so easy that I sometimes make two, just to have leftovers! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually use a mix of beef and pork for added flavor, but you can stick with just ground beef or even use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatloaf. If you’re out, try using crushed crackers or oatmeal as a substitute. Gluten-free breadcrumbs work well too if you need that option.
Milk: Regular milk keeps things moist, but if you need a dairy-free choice, try almond milk or even broth. It works surprisingly well!
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice touch of flavor but is optional. Nutritional yeast can be a great dairy-free substitute for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Ketchup: For the glaze, you can swap ketchup for barbecue sauce if you want a smoky flavor. Homemade ketchup works wonders too!
How Do I Get the Best Texture in My Meatloaf?
The key to a moist meatloaf is not to overmix your ingredients. Mixing too much can lead to a dense texture. Just combine everything gently until it’s mixed; lumps are okay! The breadcrumbs and milk are crucial because they hydrate the meat and keep it tender.
- Make sure to shape the meatloaf so it fits comfortably in your Instant Pot. You want it to cook evenly.
- Let the meatloaf rest after cooking; this helps keep those juices in, making each slice moist and flavorful.
Instant Pot Meatloaf
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3/4 cup ketchup or tomato sauce (divided)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
- 1 tbsp mustard (optional)
- 1 cup water (for the Instant Pot)
Time Estimate:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook, plus an additional 10 minutes for natural pressure release. In total, you should set aside about 45 minutes for this delicious and easy meal!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients: ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese (if using), chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix; this helps keep your meatloaf nice and tender.
2. Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of the ketchup (or tomato sauce) with the brown sugar and mustard (if using) to create a tasty glaze for the top of your meatloaf.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf that fits well on your Instant Pot trivet or in a heatproof dish that works with your Instant Pot. Make it a nice, even shape for even cooking.
4. Add the Glaze:
Spread your prepared glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf for a flavorful finish.
5. Prepare the Instant Pot:
Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot liner. Place the metal trivet inside, and then set the meatloaf on the trivet (or place your heatproof dish on the trivet).
6. Cook the Meatloaf:
Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. Enjoy the wonderful smells in your kitchen while it cooks!
7. Release the Pressure:
Once cooking is complete, let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes, then carefully do a quick release for any remaining pressure.
8. Slice & Serve:
Carefully remove the meatloaf from the Instant Pot. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing to keep the juices in.
Serve alongside mashed potatoes and your favorite steamed veggies (like asparagus) for a complete meal!
Enjoy your quick and moist Instant Pot Meatloaf with a rich, tangy glaze! It’s sure to be a hit with the whole family!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just keep in mind that turkey can sometimes be drier, so consider adding a little extra moisture, like a splash more milk or using a mix of light and dark turkey meat for better flavor and juiciness.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, which will last for about 3 months.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Yes! Adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini can enhance the flavor and add moisture. Just be sure to chop them very finely to ensure they cook properly and mix well into the meatloaf.
What Should I Do If My Meatloaf Is Overcooked?
If your meatloaf is overcooked and dry, consider topping it with additional ketchup or gravy when serving. It helps moisten each slice. Another trick is to add a bit of warmed broth over the slices when reheating to bring back some moisture.