How to Make an Amazing Meatloaf in the Microwave in Less Than 30 Minutes

For many people, classic meatloaf is the perfect cure for homesickness. But without their parents' home-cooking skills—or their parents' kitchens—young adults who have recently left the nest (or even not-so-young adults) may feel clueless when it comes to recreating the recipe themselves. Fortunately, you don't need tons of time or fancy equipment to make meatloaf at home. According to LIVESTRONG.com, all it takes to make your favorite version of the dish is 20 minutes and a microwave.

To make microwave meatloaf, start with all the ingredients found in your favorite meatloaf recipe (we love this simple version) and incorporate them together. Instead of loading the mixture into a metal loaf pan, you'll be arranging it in a donut shape inside a microwave-safe bundt pan. If you don't own that piece of equipment, placing a small glass in the center of a microwave-safe bowl and shaping the meat around that also works.

Next, cover the vessel with plastic wrap, wax paper, or something else that won't spark in the microwave. Cook it on medium-high heat for five minutes, then adjust the setting to high and cook it in the microwave for another 15 minutes.

Remove the meatloaf from the microwave and cover it for five minutes before checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. If the temperature reads 160° F, it's ready to eat. If it's a little under, pop it in the microwave for a few extra minutes before digging in.

Living in a small dorm room or apartment is no reason to abandon your culinary ambitions. As long as you have access to a microwave, you can try out these 25 kitchen hacks and recipes.

[h/t LIVESTRONG.com]