As a busy parent, I know how hard it is to make a good meal during the week. That’s why I’m excited to share this 1 pound meatloaf recipe. It’s great for small families or couples. This easy meatloaf is simple to make, making it perfect for your ground beef recipes.

Looking for a classic dish or a quick dinner? This 1 pound meatloaf will be a hit. It’s moist and flavorful, perfect for different toppings. Plus, it’s just the right size for a meal without leftovers.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

Quick and easy 1-pound meatloaf recipe perfect for busy weeknights
Ideal portion size for small families or couples
Moist and flavorful texture with a variety of seasoning options
Compact size means less leftover waste
Comforting and satisfying comfort food solution

Why This 1 Pound Meatloaf Recipe Is Perfect for Small Families

If you live in a small household or have a small family, this 1-pound meatloaf recipe is great. It serves 4 people, making it perfect for small families. It also cooks faster than big meatloaves, saving you time on busy nights.

Perfect Portion Size for Small Households

This recipe uses only 1 pound of lean ground beef. It’s perfect for smaller families or groups. With 261 calories per serving, it’s a satisfying meal that won’t leave you with too much food.

Time-Saving Benefits for Busy Weeknights

This quick-cooking meatloaf is a time-saver. It takes only 62 minutes to prepare and cook. Its small size means it bakes in about 45-50 minutes, so you can eat faster.

Budget-Friendly Meal Solution

This 1-pound meatloaf recipe is affordable. It uses ground beef, breadcrumbs, and pantry staples. You can also customize it with different meats or seasonings to fit your taste and dietary needs.

This 1-pound meatloaf is great for small families or groups. It’s a quick and budget-friendly meal that won’t leave you with too much food. Its perfect size, quick cooking time, and versatile ingredients make it a favorite for small families.

Essential Ingredients and Kitchen Tools Needed

To make a tasty 1-pound meatloaf, you’ll need some important meatloaf ingredients and kitchen essentials. Let’s explore what you’ll need for this baking tools-friendly recipe:

1 pound of 80/20 ground beef
1 cup of breadcrumbs (or alternatives like crushed Saltines or oats)
1/2 cup of milk
2 large eggs
Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper for seasoning

For the glaze, you’ll need:

Ketchup
Brown sugar
Worcestershire sauce

Here are the essential kitchen tools you’ll need:

A large mixing bowl
A rimmed baking sheet lined with foil
A meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking temperature

With these simple meatloaf ingredients and kitchen essentials, you’re ready to make a delicious 1-pound meatloaf. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.

The Secret to a Perfectly Moist 1 Pound Meatloaf

Making a juicy, tasty meatloaf is all about finding the right mix. The key is to balance the ingredients well. This means picking the best meat-to-fat ratio, using the right binders, and mixing it just right.

Choosing the Right Meat-to-Fat Ratio

For a tender and juicy meatloaf, go for an 80/20 ground beef mix. This mix has enough fat to keep the meatloaf texture soft and juicy. But it won’t be too greasy.

The Role of Breadcrumbs and Milk

Breadcrumbs and milk make a special mix called a panade. It helps keep the moist meatloaf moist. The breadcrumbs soak up the milk, making a binder that keeps the meat from drying out.

Essential Binding Ingredients

Eggs are key binders, keeping the meatloaf together and stopping it from falling apart.
It’s also important not to overmix the meat. Too much mixing can make it tough and rubbery.

By balancing the meat-to-fat ratio, using the panade, and adding essential binders, you’ll get a delicious, juicy meatloaf. It’s sure to please your family.

Step-by-Step Mixing and Preparation Method

To make your tasty meatloaf preparation, start by mixing dry ingredients in a big bowl. This includes breadcrumbs, oats, or other binders, and herbs and spices. Mix these gently to spread flavors evenly.

Then, add wet ingredients like milk, eggs, and Worcestershire sauce to the bowl. Mix these with the dry ingredients lightly. Be careful not to overmix, as it can make the homemade meatloaf dense and tough.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a foil-lined baking sheet or shallow baking dish.
Gently shape the easy meatloaf recipe mixture into a loaf, placing it on the prepared baking surface.
Apply half of your desired glaze or topping to the top and sides of the meatloaf, reserving the rest for later.
Bake the meatloaf for approximately 55-65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Allow the meatloaf to rest for 7-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

This method ensures flavors are spread out evenly in the meatloaf preparation. This makes the meatloaf moist and tasty. You can add the reserved glaze during the last few minutes of baking or over the sliced meatloaf for extra flavor.

Classic Meatloaf Seasonings and Flavor Enhancers

Making a tasty meatloaf begins with the right mix of seasonings and aromatics. The secret to a great meatloaf is choosing the right flavor-boosting ingredients.

Herbs and Spices Combination

For a classic taste, start with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. These spices create a savory base.

Adding Aromatics for Depth

Chopped onions add depth to the meatloaf’s flavor. You can also try minced garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. They enhance the aroma and taste.

Worcestershire Sauce and Other Flavor Boosters

Worcestershire sauce is essential for a classic meatloaf. It adds a tangy umami flavor. You can also use Dijon mustard or soy sauce to boost the taste of this home cooked meal.

By picking the right meatloaf seasoning, flavor enhancers, and aromatic ingredients, you’ll make a meatloaf that’s a hit at dinner.

Perfect Temperature and Timing Guidelines

Baking the perfect meatloaf is about finding the right temperature and timing. Preheat your oven to 350°F. This temperature is perfect, allowing the meatloaf to cook through and develop a delicious crust.

For the cooking time, bake the meatloaf for about 35 minutes. Then, add the glaze on top and bake for another 30-35 minutes. This method ensures the meatloaf is cooked and the glaze caramelizes beautifully.

To check if your meatloaf is cooked safely, use a meat thermometer. The USDA says to aim for 160°F for beef and 165°F for turkey or chicken. After it reaches the right temperature, let it rest for 15 minutes. This makes the meatloaf moist and flavorful.

Oven Temperature	Baking Time	Internal Temperature
350°F	35 minutes, then 30-35 minutes with glaze	160°F for beef, 165°F for turkey/chicken

By following these guidelines, you’ll make a meatloaf that’s perfectly cooked every time.

“The secret to a moist and flavorful meatloaf is all in the temperature and timing. Baking at 350°F and using a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature is the key to success.”

Creating the Ultimate 1 Pound Meatloaf Glaze

Take your meatloaf to the next level with a sweet and tangy glaze. The key is to balance flavors and use the right techniques.

Sweet and Tangy Glaze Options

For a classic glaze, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. This mix of sweet and savory is perfect for meatloaf.

Try other glazes like a BBQ-inspired sauce or a spicy version with sriracha. The goal is to balance sweet and tangy for the best taste.

Application Techniques

To get a thick, caramelized glaze, apply it in two steps. Spread half the glaze before baking, then the rest near the end. This method helps the glaze form a tasty crust while keeping the meatloaf juicy.

The secret to a great meatloaf glaze is balance and technique. Experiment with ingredients and methods to make your meatloaf unforgettable.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with our 1 Pound Meatloaf

Meatloaf is a comfort food classic. But what makes it even better? The right side dishes! Here are some top picks to go with your homemade meatloaf:

Mashed Potatoes – A classic side that pairs well with meatloaf. Add a pat of butter for extra creaminess.
Roasted Vegetables – Try roasting a mix of veggies like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and potatoes. It’s colorful and full of nutrients.
Green Beans – Sautéed or steamed green beans add a fresh crunch to your meal.
Macaroni and Cheese – A comfort food combo that’s loved by all.
Dinner Rolls – Warm, soft rolls are great for soaking up meatloaf gravy or sauce.

For a Southern twist, try sides like collard greens, fried okra, or baked beans. A crisp salad also pairs well, balancing the meatloaf’s richness.

Side Dish	Calories	Fat	Carbs	Protein
Loaded Mashed Potatoes	307	16g	30g	11g
Roasted Green Beans	76	5g	8g	3g
Homemade Rolls	120	1g	24g	3g
Two-Cheese Mac ‘n Cheese	331	17g	28g	16g

With these delicious side dishes, you can make a comforting meatloaf dinner that everyone will enjoy.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Enjoying a perfect one-pound meatloaf doesn’t have to end when it’s over. You can enjoy leftovers for days with the right storage and reheating. Let’s look at the best ways to keep and warm up your meatloaf.

Proper Refrigeration Methods

To keep your leftover meatloaf fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. This keeps the flavor in and prevents drying out.

Freezing and Thawing Tips

For longer storage, freezing meatloaf is a good choice. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, let it sit in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating for Best Results

There are a few ways to reheat your leftover meatloaf well. For the oven, preheat to 350°F and bake for 20-30 minutes. You can also air fry at 350°F for 10 minutes. For the microwave, heat in 30-second bursts until it’s 165°F, adding broth or water to keep it moist.

By using these reheating tips, you can enjoy your leftover meatloaf just as much as the first time.

Conclusion

This 1-pound meatloaf recipe is perfect for small families or busy people. It’s a easy family dinner that’s both comforting and delicious. The recipe is simple, making it great for a versatile recipe that everyone can enjoy.

Looking for a hearty dinner or leftovers for the week? This meatloaf is your answer. You can try different flavors to keep things exciting. Plus, it’s made with lean ground beef, so it’s easy on your wallet.

Try this 1-pound meatloaf recipe for a convenient and tasty meal. It’s a easy family dinner that will become a favorite. Get ready to enjoy a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

FAQ

How many people does this 1-pound meatloaf recipe serve?

This 1-pound meatloaf recipe serves 2-4 people. It’s perfect for small families or couples.

How long does it take to prepare this meatloaf?

You can prepare this meatloaf in under 10 minutes. It’s quick and easy for busy weeknights.

What temperature should the meatloaf be baked at?

Bake the meatloaf at 350°F for the best results.

What are the key ingredients in this meatloaf recipe?

The main ingredients are 1 pound of lean ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, and a glaze. The glaze is made with ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.

How do I ensure a moist and juicy meatloaf?

Use the right meat-to-fat ratio and a panade of breadcrumbs and milk. Eggs help bind it all together for a moist and juicy meatloaf.

What seasonings are used to add flavor to the meatloaf?

The meatloaf gets flavor from garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Minced onions and Worcestershire sauce add a special touch.

How long should the meatloaf be baked?

Bake the meatloaf for 35 minutes. Then, add the glaze and bake for another 30-35 minutes. It should reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

What type of glaze is used on the meatloaf?

A classic glaze is used. It’s made with ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Apply half before baking and the rest towards the end for a caramelized crust.

What are some good side dish options to serve with the meatloaf?

Try mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables. Collard greens, fried okra, macaroni and cheese, or a simple salad also pair well. Dinner rolls or cornbread complement the meatloaf nicely.

How can I store and reheat leftover meatloaf?

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To freeze, wrap it in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating at 350°F or in a skillet with broth.

1-Pound Meatloaf Recipe – Perfect for Busy Weeknights