Instant Pot Meatloaf is a quick and flavorful take on a classic comfort food, delivering a tender and juicy result with minimal effort. This recipe transforms a traditional meatloaf into a pressure-cooked delight, retaining all the savory goodness without the lengthy bake time. A blend of ground beef and spices is shaped into a loaf and pressure-cooked to perfection, resulting in a moist and delicious dish. The tangy glaze, made from ketchup and mustard, caramelizes beautifully under the broiler for an added layer of flavor. This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or vegetables, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
For the Glaze
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape that will fit inside your Instant Pot. Use a piece of aluminum foil or parchment paper to create a sling, which will help you lift the meatloaf out after cooking.
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Add 1 cup of water to the bottom of the Instant Pot and place the trivet inside. Carefully place the meatloaf on top of the trivet using the foil or parchment sling.
- Cook the Meatloaf: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to “Pressure Cook” on high for 30 minutes. Ensure the valve is set to the sealing position.
- Make the Glaze: While the meatloaf is cooking, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
- Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release by carefully turning the valve to the venting position. Remove the lid once the pressure has fully released.
- Apply the Glaze: Carefully lift the meatloaf out of the Instant Pot using the sling and transfer it to a baking sheet. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Broil the Meatloaf: Preheat your oven’s broiler. Place the glazed meatloaf under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbly and slightly caramelized.
- Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
This Instant Pot Meatloaf is a delicious, time-saving twist on a beloved classic, providing all the comforting flavors with the convenience of modern cooking. Enjoy!
