Meatloaf -- 30-minute "Amana Classic" ('swonderful!)

Submitted by: jej
Last Updated: 8/28/2009

I would be lost now without making a meatloaf in my microwave. It is really delicious and FAST. I like to use it for a meat-&-potatoes meal the first time, and for sandwiches afterwards. It is from the Amana microwave oven cookbook. I'll put it in here AND post it. I usually get ground round or gr. sirloin. It cooks for 6 min. on full power, then for 23 min. on level 3. That means it really is quick. I was in such a hurry the last time, I dumped all the ingred. in a big bowl and it was mixed in a jiffy with my hands. Here it is:

AMANA CLASSIC MEATLOAF

1-1/2 lbs ground meat (I prefer gr. round or sirloin for lower fat content. Occasionally gr. chuck, if it's a great buy...)
1 8-oz can tomato sauce***
1/2 c. bread crumbs
1 T. dried onion
1 egg
1/2 t. salt
pepper to taste (opt.)

***Use only 3/4 c. (6 oz. or 3/4 can) of tomato sauce for a firmer meatloaf; the rest can be used in the barbecue sauce; I like this option.

1. Mix all of the ingredients together well. I used to use a spoon -- but it's a LOT easier and faster with the hands.

2. Place in glass bread pan (or other microwave safe pan). Pack it in firmly.

3. Bake in the microwave for 6 minutes on FULL POWER.

4. During this 6 min., mix up Barbecue Sauce to cover meatloaf.
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BARBECUE SAUCE FOR MEATLOAF:

1/3 c. catsup (or pour leftover tomato sauce in measuring cup, and fill up to 1/3 level with catsup)
1 T. dk. brown sugar (I use light)
1 T. prepared mustard
1 t. Worcestershire Sauce

Mix together. It can be heated, if you wish. I don't bother.
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5. When the 6 minutes are up, I use something to hold the meatloaf in the dish and drain off fat. (A 'baster' can also suck out the fat.) Spread BBQ sauce over the surface of the meatloaf.

6. Return to microwave oven and continue cooking on level 3 for 23-29 minutes. I usually only cook it for the 23-minute-minimum. The internal temperature should read at 160ýF.