Meatloaf Recipe 1 Pound Beef Easy and Delicious Ideas

Meatloaf is a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. This classic dish, made with 1 pound of beef, is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, a well-made meatloaf can please a crowd with its juicy texture and rich flavors. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, combining familiar ingredients to create a hearty, flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

In this post, I’ll guide you through a straightforward, foolproof meatloaf recipe that balances savory, sweet, and tangy elements perfectly. From mixing the ingredients to baking it just right, you’ll learn all the tips and tricks to make your meatloaf moist and delicious every single time.

Plus, I’ll share some creative variations to keep this classic dish exciting and fresh.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This meatloaf recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. Using 1 pound of ground beef keeps the portion just right for small families or couples, while still being filling.

The ingredients are pantry staples, making it accessible and budget-friendly.

You’ll love how the combination of onions, garlic, breadcrumbs, and a tangy tomato glaze come together to create layers of flavor. Plus, the texture is always moist and tender, avoiding the dryness that sometimes plagues meatloaf recipes.

This recipe is also incredibly adaptable — you can easily swap ingredients to suit your dietary needs or preferences.

If you enjoy hearty, comforting meals, this meatloaf will quickly become a staple in your cooking repertoire. And if you’re looking for more delicious meal ideas, be sure to check out our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide and Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals for diverse flavors and easy cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
• 1/4 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 large egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky depth)

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and chopping board
• Loaf pan (8×4 inch recommended) or baking sheet
• Oven
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Aluminum foil (optional, for covering)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the onion and garlic: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves. This ensures they blend well in the meatloaf and release their flavors.
3. In a large bowl, combine the following: ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, dried herbs, and smoked paprika. Use your hands or a spatula to mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
4. Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet. Press it gently to form an even shape.
5. Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf for a tangy glaze that caramelizes while baking.
6. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 55-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer for best results.
7. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps it moist.
8. Slice and serve warm. Enjoy your homemade meatloaf with your favorite sides!

Tips & Variations

“For the juiciest meatloaf, avoid overmixing the beef mixture and use a mix with 20% fat content.”

Make it your own: Try adding finely chopped bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even mushrooms to sneak in some extra veggies. For a cheesy twist, mix in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese.

If you want to amp up the glaze, mix ketchup with a tablespoon of brown sugar and a teaspoon of mustard for a sweet and tangy topping.

Substitutions: Swap breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or oats if desired. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground nuts.

For a more herbaceous profile, fresh parsley or thyme can be added instead of dried herbs. And if you prefer turkey or chicken, feel free to substitute ground beef with ground poultry, but watch the cooking time as these tend to dry out faster.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or roasted carrots. For a lighter meal, serve slices over a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.

Consider making creamy mashed cauliflower as a low-carb alternative, or try warm buttered noodles tossed with herbs for a comforting base. For a refreshing contrast, a crisp cucumber salad or coleslaw adds nice texture and balance.

To explore more delicious and healthy side options, check out our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas and Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food.

Conclusion

This meatloaf recipe using 1 pound of ground beef is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings classic comfort food to your table with ease. Its balanced flavors and juicy texture make it a winner for any occasion, from busy weeknights to weekend family dinners.

With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a delicious meatloaf that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Plus, the recipe’s flexibility allows you to customize it according to your taste or dietary needs.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. Don’t forget to explore other fantastic recipes like the 400 Calorie Vegetarian Dinner Recipe Ideas for Healthy Meals to keep your menu exciting and wholesome.

Happy cooking!

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