Easy 1 Pound Meatloaf Recipe: Quick & Delicious
As a busy parent, finding meals that are both nourishing and easy can be tough. That’s why I’m excited to share this easy 1 pound meatloaf recipe with you. It’s a simple, yet delicious dish perfect for those hectic weeknights. You’ll have a hearty, comforting meal ready in no time.
Key Takeaways
- This easy 1 pound meatloaf recipe yields 4 servings, making it the perfect size for smaller families or those looking for portion control.
- The recipe features a simple seasoning blend and a caramelized BBQ glaze for maximum flavor.
- With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total cook time of less than an hour, this quick meatloaf dinner is an excellent choice for easy weeknight meals.
- Leftovers can be stored for up to 4 days in the refrigerator or frozen for up to 3 months, making it a budget-friendly and family-friendly option.
- This simple meatloaf recipe is versatile and can be easily customized to suit your family’s preferences.
Introduction to Easy 1 Pound Meatloaf Recipe
Meatloaf is a beloved comfort food in America for many years. This 1 pound meatloaf recipe brings the same tasty flavors but in a smaller size. It’s great for weeknight dinners or smaller families.
This recipe is family-friendly and budget-friendly. It’s perfect for busy cooks. You can make it in just 10 minutes and cook it in about 60 minutes. This way, you can enjoy a tasty classic comfort food meal quickly.
The recipe mixes lean ground beef, bread crumbs, and a tasty sauce. This makes a moist and flavorful meatloaf. It’s perfect for small families or a quick weeknight dinner.
“This 1 pound meatloaf recipe is a game-changer for busy home cooks. It’s quick, easy, and delivers all the classic comfort food flavors we love.” – Jane Doe, Culinary Enthusiast
Next, you’ll learn about the benefits of a smaller meatloaf. You’ll also find out about the ingredients and how to prepare them. Plus, you’ll get tips for baking the perfect meatloaf. Get ready for a delicious, family-friendly meal that’s easy on your wallet.
Why Make a One Pound Meatloaf?
Making a portion control meal is easy with a 1 pound meatloaf. It’s great for small families or when you don’t need to cook for many. This size is perfect for 2-4 people, helping to avoid food waste.
The meatloaf cooks quickly, which is great for busy nights. It’s a convenient choice for those with tight schedules.
Portion Control and Convenience
The recipe uses 80% lean ground beef. This way, you can control how much you eat. The meatloaf should be cooked to 160 degrees F (71 degrees C).
Leftover meatloaf can be kept in the fridge for 3 days or frozen for 3 months. This makes it easy to have a meal ready for later. Ground chicken breast needs to be cooked to 165 degrees F.
The recipe includes nutritional info per serving. This includes calories, carbs, protein, fats, and more. Users are advised to double-check these numbers if needed.
“The provided recipe is for a one pound meatloaf, making it suitable for serving smaller groups or for weeknight dinners.”
Ingredients for the Perfect Meatloaf
Creating the perfect meatloaf starts with the right ingredients. This recipe uses ground beef meatloaf, breadcrumbs, eggs, and classic flavorful seasoning. Together, they make a dish that’s both simple and delicious.
Ground Meat Options
You can use lean ground beef meatloaf or mix it with other meats. Try adding ground pork, turkey, or lean chicken. This mix can bring new flavors and textures to your meatloaf.
Seasoning Blend
This recipe’s seasoning blend is key. It includes Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. These ingredients combine to make a savory, aromatic meatloaf that tastes great.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Lean Ground Beef | 1 pound |
| Breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Italian Seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Onion Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
“The secret to a truly delectable meatloaf lies in the perfect blend of ingredients.”
Preparation Tips for Juicy Meatloaf
Making a moist and tender meatloaf begins with the right mixing. It’s important to mix well but not too much. This prevents the meat from becoming tough. Here are some tips to help you make a juicy and tasty meatloaf every time.
Mixing Technique
Start by mixing the egg, breadcrumbs, and seasonings in a big bowl. This lets the flavors mix before adding the meat. Then, add the ground beef, veal, and pork gently. Avoid overmixing to keep the meat tender and moist.
Mix the ingredients lightly. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the meat until the seasonings are spread out evenly. Don’t overwork it, as this can ruin the moist and tender texture you want.
“The secret to a juicy meatloaf is all in the mixing. Gentle is the way to go, otherwise you’ll end up with a tough, dense loaf.”
After mixing, put the meat in a loaf pan or shape it on a baking sheet. Don’t press the mixture too hard, as this can make it tough. Shape it softly, letting it have some air pockets.
By using these mixing tips, you’ll make a moist and tender meatloaf that everyone will love.
Baking Instructions for Easy 1 Pound Meatloaf
Preparing a meatloaf has never been easier with this simple baking method. To achieve perfectly baked and juicy results, follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
- Transfer the prepared meatloaf mixture onto the baking sheet, shaping it into a rectangular loaf about 1 inch thick.
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Once the meatloaf has reached the target temperature, increase the oven temperature to 450°F and continue baking for an additional 8-12 minutes. This final high-heat baking will help the glaze caramelize and create a delicious crust.
- Keep a close eye on the meatloaf during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning.
- Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for 7-10 minutes before slicing. This resting period will help the juices redistribute, resulting in moist and flavorful slices.
By baking the meatloaf on a sheet pan instead of a loaf pan, you’ll achieve a beautifully browned exterior and delicious caramelized edges. The combination of initial baking at 350°F and the final high-heat burst at 450°F ensures a perfectly cooked and flavorful one-pound meatloaf every time.
“The secret to a juicy, flavorful meatloaf is all in the baking technique. This method ensures a perfectly cooked and delicious one-pound meatloaf every time.”
Finishing Touches: Glaze and Resting
When the meatloaf comes out of the oven, it’s time for the final touch – a BBQ sauce glaze. This glaze adds a sweet, tangy crust and seals in the juices. It makes every bite a delight.
Caramelized Glaze
To make the glaze, mix together ¾ cup ketchup, 1 ½ teaspoons white vinegar, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 2 ½ teaspoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper in a saucepan. Simmer it for 3-5 minutes, stirring now and then, until it thickens.
Brush the hot meatloaf with the glaze, making sure it’s fully covered. The sugar in the glaze will caramelize, creating a shiny crust. This crust seals in the bbq sauce glaze and improves the texture.
Resting for Juicy Slices
After glazing, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step is key for the meat to reach a safe 160°F. It also makes the meat juicy and tender.
It’s hard to wait, but it’s worth it. The meatloaf will be juicy and full of flavor. Your family and guests will love it.
“The secret to a truly delicious meatloaf lies in the finishing touches – the perfect glaze and the importance of allowing it to rest. These steps elevate a simple dish into a culinary masterpiece.”
Easy 1 Pound Meatloaf Recipe Variations
This easy 1 pound meatloaf recipe is a classic and tasty choice. But, you can also make it your own by trying different meatloaf recipe variations and customizable flavors. This way, you can make a dish that you really enjoy.
One fun thing to do is mix different ground meats. You could mix ground beef and pork, or even use ground turkey for a leaner option. Each meat adds its own special flavor to the meatloaf.
You can also play with the seasonings. Add extra herbs, spices, or even grated cheese to change the taste. Some great things to add include:
- Minced garlic or onions
- Freshly chopped parsley, thyme, or oregano
- Grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese
- Diced bell peppers or mushrooms
Adding these ingredients can make your meatloaf recipe variation truly your own. It will taste just the way you like it.
| Variations | Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Italian-Style Meatloaf | Ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, oregano, basil | Savory and herbal |
| Southwestern Meatloaf | Ground beef, chili powder, cumin, diced bell peppers, shredded cheddar | Spicy and smoky |
| Mushroom Swiss Meatloaf | Ground beef, sautéed mushrooms, Swiss cheese, Worcestershire sauce | Earthy and umami-rich |
Try out these meatloaf recipe variations and customizable flavors to find your favorite. You can make a delicious and personalized meatloaf that you’ll love.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
The easy 1 pound meatloaf recipe is a tasty main dish. It goes well with many side items. Think about classic pairings to make your meal better and more balanced.
Classic Pairings
Some top side dishes for meatloaf are:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables like carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts
- Macaroni and cheese
- Fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette
These side dish ideas match the meatloaf’s flavors well. They make a complete meal. The mix of tender meatloaf and cozy sides is a joy to eat.
“A well-rounded plate is the key to a truly satisfying meatloaf dinner.”
When you serve the easy 1 pound meatloaf, think about these meatloaf pairings. They’ll make your meal comforting, hearty, and complete for your family.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Enjoying your one-pound meatloaf is easy. Leftovers can be stored and reheated for a quick meal. This is great for small families or those who prefer single servings. It’s a time-saver for busy weeknights.
To store leftovers, put them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheating is simple and keeps the meatloaf moist and tasty.
Reheating Meatloaf Leftovers
Make sure the meatloaf reaches 165°F (74°C) when reheating. This follows USDA food safety guidelines. Here are some reheating tips:
- Oven Reheating: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf in a dish or on foil. Cover and reheat for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Air Fryer Reheating: Set to 350°F (175°C). Reheat for 5 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Microwave Reheating: Use a microwave-safe plate. Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until hot.
For frozen leftovers, wrap in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 45 minutes.
To keep the meatloaf moist, drizzle with beef broth, gravy, or tomato sauce before reheating. Adding a pan of water in the oven helps too.
Follow these tips to enjoy your meatloaf leftovers for days. It’s a smart way to save time and effort in the kitchen.
Benefits of Making a Small Meatloaf
Making a 1 pound meatloaf is great for your kitchen. It’s perfect for small families or those who don’t want to waste food. This recipe is easy to make and can be a tasty, affordable meal for your household.
Budget-Friendly
A 1 pound meatloaf is a smart choice for saving money. It makes just the right amount of food, so you won’t have leftovers or waste. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
Family-Friendly
The 1 pound meatloaf recipe is great for small families. It’s the perfect size for couples or small families. You won’t have to deal with big leftovers or uneaten food. It’s a meal that fits your family’s needs perfectly.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1/2 pound |
| Ground Pork | 1/2 pound |
| Cottage Cheese | 1/4 cup |
| Ketchup | 1/4 cup |
| Brown Sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Balsamic Glaze | 1 tablespoon |
Choosing a smaller meatloaf is a smart move. It’s a cost-effective meal that’s perfect for smaller households. You can enjoy a delicious dinner without worrying about leftovers.
Tips for a Perfectly Baked Meatloaf
Baking a delicious meatloaf needs some key steps. These meatloaf baking tips help you get the right texture and keep it safe to eat. Follow these tips for a tasty meatloaf every time.
First, use a meat thermometer to check the meatloaf’s temperature. Choose ground beef with 15% fat, like 85/15 or 80/20. It’s ready when it hits 160°F, usually after 45 to 55 minutes at 375°F.
Don’t overmix the meatloaf. Overmixing makes it dense and tough. Mix the ground meat, finely crushed saltine crackers, milk, and spices gently.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This step is key for a desired texture. It lets the juices spread, making the meatloaf moist and tasty.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef (85/15 or 80/20 ratio) | 1 pound |
| Cremini mushrooms, finely chopped | 2 cups |
| Saltine crackers, finely crushed | 1/2 cup (about 12-15 crackers) |
| Milk | 1/4 cup |
| Meatloaf glaze (ketchup, maple syrup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce) | 1/2 cup ketchup, 1 tsp maple syrup, 1/2 tsp mustard, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce |
By following these meatloaf baking tips, your one-pound meatloaf will be moist, flavorful, and safe. Enjoy it with your favorite sides for a great meal.
Conclusion
This easy 1 pound meatloaf recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s made with simple ingredients and is quick to prepare. It’s a great choice for a family favorite dinner.
Whether you like traditional ground beef or ground elk, this recipe works for you. You can also adjust the flavors to fit your taste and dietary needs.
Enjoy the juicy, flavorful meatloaf with your favorite sides. This classic dish is both comforting and convenient. Make it a regular part of your meals.
