Easy One Pound Meatloaf Recipe – Perfect Family Dinner

Growing up, the smell of homemade meatloaf in the kitchen was comforting. It brought back memories of family dinners. We’d all gather, excited to eat.

Now, as an adult, I’ve found it’s easy to make those flavors again. This one-pound meatloaf recipe is great for small families or groups of four. It’s moist, flavorful, and topped with a delicious sauce.

The best part? It uses simple ingredients from your pantry. You can adjust them to fit your family’s taste.

Classic One Pound Meatloaf Recipe: Essential Ingredients

Making a perfect one-pound meatloaf begins with picking the right ingredients. You need two main things: good ground beef and the right binding elements.

Ground Beef and Binding Components

Choose ground beef that’s 90-93% fat-free for the best taste and texture. This keeps the meatloaf light and flavorful. To hold it together, use one large egg and 1/4 to 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs or Panko. The egg acts as glue, while breadcrumbs add structure and soak up moisture.

Flavorful Seasonings and Mix-ins

Now, let’s talk about the seasonings and mix-ins that make this meatloaf special. Add a bit of Worcestershire sauce, a teaspoon of garlic powder, and some Italian seasoning for deep flavors. Remember to season with salt and pepper to your liking. For extra moisture and texture, add finely chopped veggies like onions, bell peppers, celery, or mushrooms.

By choosing these key ingredients, you’re on your way to a delicious meatloaf. The secret is balancing flavors and binding elements for a moist and tasty one-pound meatloaf.

How to Make the Perfect Meatloaf Glaze

Adding a tasty glaze to your meatloaf can make dinner special. The secret is finding the right mix of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. This makes your meatloaf recipe with ketchup truly delicious.

The classic glaze has 3/4 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 tablespoon ground mustard. This combo creates a sweet, sticky topping that goes well with the meatloaf. If you want something different, try 1/2 cup ketchup, 1 teaspoon brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional).

Don’t like ketchup? No problem. Barbecue sauce is a tasty alternative. The goal is to find a flavor that makes your meatloaf recipe with ketchup even better.

Choose your glaze and brush it on during the last 15-20 minutes of baking. This lets the flavors meld and create a crispy crust on your meatloaf recipe with ketchup. It will make your homemade meatloaf a hit with your family.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions and Tips

Preparing a one-pound meatloaf is easy and makes a tasty dinner for your family. Just follow a few simple steps and tips. This way, your meatloaf will be flavorful, tender, and perfectly cooked every time.

Preparation Methods

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a big bowl, mix all the meatloaf ingredients gently. Don’t overmix to avoid a tough texture. Shape the mix into a loaf and put it in an 8×10 inch casserole dish or a standard loaf pan.

Baking Guidelines

1. Brush the top of the meatloaf with your favorite glaze or sauce.
2. Bake the meatloaf uncovered for 45-60 minutes. It should reach 160°F (71°C) for beef, or 165°F (74°C) for chicken or turkey.
3. After it’s cooked, let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and the loaf to stay together.

By following these steps and tips, you’ll make a delicious, tender one-pound meatloaf. Your family will love it! Enjoy your homemade meal!

Conclusion

The one-pound meatloaf recipe is a great choice for a family dinner. It’s perfect for 2-4 people, avoiding too much food left over. You can also make it your own by using different meats, adding veggies, or trying out new glazes.

Making this meatloaf is easy and quick, making it perfect for busy nights. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a salad for a cozy meal. You can also store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for later.

If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy on the wallet, saves time, and is just the right size, this meatloaf is it. It offers a delicious mix of flavors in a convenient package.