The One Pound Meatloaf is a no-fuss, satisfying dinner that brings all the nostalgic comfort of a traditional home-cooked meal. Made with pantry staples like breadcrumbs, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce, it’s a flavorful blend that’s moist on the inside and perfectly glazed on top. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Whether you’re feeding a small family or cooking for one and saving leftovers, this meatloaf fits the bill. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and pairs beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a crisp salad. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish belongs in every home cook’s rotation.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
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1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup milk
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1 egg
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1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp onion powder
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and mix gently until well combined.
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Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place in a baking dish or loaf pan.
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Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
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Bake uncovered for 55–60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
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Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Ultimate Guide to Classic One Pound Meatloaf
Meatloaf is the quintessential American comfort food, a nostalgic staple that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. Simple yet flavorful, it’s a dish that many of us grew up eating and loving. Among the many variations out there, the classic One Pound Meatloaf stands out as the perfect choice for small households, beginner cooks, or anyone seeking a no-fuss dinner option that delivers big on flavor.
This recipe is incredibly versatile, economical, and satisfying. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a dependable weekday meal, a beginner home cook hoping to build confidence in the kitchen, or simply someone craving the taste of home, this meatloaf is a winning option. Let’s dive into what makes it so special, how to customize it to your taste, and why it continues to stand the test of time as a beloved family favorite.
A Timeless Comfort Food
One of the greatest appeals of meatloaf is its ability to evoke memories of cozy family dinners, especially when paired with mashed potatoes, gravy, or green beans. The classic recipe uses just one pound of ground beef, making it a manageable portion size for small families or individuals.
While many modern dishes come and go with food trends, meatloaf remains a perennial favorite thanks to its simplicity and the way it blends flavorful ingredients into a cohesive, hearty meal. The nostalgic aspect also plays a big role in its continued popularity. For many, meatloaf brings back childhood memories and is closely tied to the sense of comfort and tradition.
Why One Pound is the Perfect Size
The beauty of using just one pound of meat is its practicality. Not only does it help with portion control, but it also reduces cooking time and minimizes waste. It’s ideal for couples, singles, or small families who want to enjoy a full-flavored dinner without dealing with an abundance of leftovers.
Cooking a one-pound meatloaf also means faster oven times typically around 55–60 minutes making it a time-efficient choice for weeknight dinners. Plus, the smaller size allows the glaze to permeate more thoroughly, resulting in a moist and flavorful interior every time.
What Makes a Great Meatloaf?
At its core, meatloaf is about balancing texture and flavor. The best versions are moist and tender on the inside, with a slightly crisp, caramelized glaze on the outside. The secret lies in using the right mix of binders (such as breadcrumbs and eggs), seasonings (like garlic and onion powder), and a touch of acidity and sweetness often from ketchup and Worcestershire sauce.
What sets this one-pound meatloaf recipe apart is its simplicity. It relies on accessible pantry ingredients, doesn’t require complex prep work, and comes together in just minutes before baking. Even better, it’s easy to make ahead and stores well, making it a favorite for meal preppers and busy home cooks.
Versatility and Customization
One of the biggest advantages of a basic meatloaf recipe is its adaptability. You can modify the ingredients to suit different dietary needs or preferences:
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Make it leaner by using ground turkey or chicken.
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Add vegetables like finely chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
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Spice it up with smoked paprika, cayenne, or jalapeños for a bit of heat.
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Go low-carb by replacing breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
You can even experiment with different glazes try a BBQ sauce glaze for a smoky twist, or a honey mustard topping for tangy-sweet flavor. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a flexible foundation for a variety of culinary creations.
Ideal Sides to Serve With Meatloaf
A classic meatloaf deserves classic sides. The traditional meat-and-potatoes combination is popular for a reason it’s filling, comforting, and satisfying. Some perfect pairings include:
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Mashed potatoes – creamy and buttery, they balance the savory meatloaf perfectly.
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Green beans or steamed broccoli – adds freshness and crunch to the plate.
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Macaroni and cheese – for a decadent, indulgent touch.
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Roasted vegetables – such as carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts.
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Gravy or brown sauce – to pour over both the meatloaf and the sides.
When you’re in the mood for something lighter, a crisp garden salad or simple cucumber and tomato mix can refresh the palate.
Perfect for Leftovers
One of the underrated aspects of making meatloaf is how well it keeps and transforms. A one-pound meatloaf can yield a couple of leftover slices that make excellent sandwiches or next-day meals. Try slicing the cold meatloaf and layering it on toast with some mayo, lettuce, and tomato for a delicious lunch.
You can also crumble leftover meatloaf and add it to pasta, hash, or even tacos for a creative twist. It stores well in the fridge for 3–4 days and can be frozen for longer storage, making it a great meal-prepping option.
Tips for Meatloaf Success
Here are a few tips to ensure your one-pound meatloaf comes out perfect every time:
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Don’t overmix: Mix the ingredients just until combined to prevent a tough loaf.
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Use a meat thermometer: Make sure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) to ensure doneness.
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Let it rest: Allow the meatloaf to sit for about 5–10 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier.
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Use foil if needed: If the top is browning too quickly, lightly tent it with foil during the last 15–20 minutes of baking.
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Shape it freehand: Instead of using a loaf pan, try shaping the meatloaf by hand and baking it on a sheet pan for more crispy edges.
These small adjustments can make a big difference in both the flavor and presentation of your meatloaf.
A Great Meal for Any Occasion
While meatloaf is often considered a weeknight staple, it also works well for casual entertaining or Sunday dinners. Serve it on a platter with an elegant glaze and colorful sides, and it can easily be elevated into a centerpiece dish. It’s also a wonderful comfort meal to bring to potlucks, new parents, or neighbors in need of a home-cooked touch.
It’s approachable enough for beginner cooks yet reliable enough for seasoned home chefs. It’s not just food it’s tradition, warmth, and connection on a plate.
Conclusion:
This Classic One Pound Meatloaf recipe offers everything a home cook could want: simplicity, flavor, comfort, and flexibility. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable. With a short list of ingredients and minimal prep, it’s the perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights or quiet weekends.
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a small family, this recipe hits all the right notes. Pair it with your favorite sides, store the leftovers for later, and enjoy a meal that satisfies both heart and stomach. There’s a reason meatloaf has been a favorite for generations and with this one-pound version, it’s easier than ever to bring that warmth to your own kitchen.