Name: One Pound Meatloaf Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio); 1 egg; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup milk; 1/2 cup finely diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp dried Italian herbs; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/3 cup ketchup; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (for glaze)

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This one-pound meatloaf is my go-to when I want something comforting, hearty, and easy to prepare. It’s made with flavorful ground beef, classic seasonings, and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze that bakes into a glossy, delicious finish. Whether it’s for a family dinner or meal prep for the week, I always enjoy how satisfying and dependable this dish is.

One Pound Meatloaf Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple and quick this meatloaf is to put together. It only takes a few ingredients that I usually have on hand, and the steps are straightforward. The breadcrumbs and milk keep the meat moist and tender, while the glaze adds a perfect pop of flavor. It’s the kind of meal that brings warmth to the table with very little effort, and the leftovers are just as tasty the next day.

Ingredients

For the meatloaf:

Ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
Egg
Breadcrumbs
Milk
Finely diced onion
Garlic, minced
Worcestershire sauce
Dried Italian herbs
Salt
Black pepper

For the glaze:

Ketchup
Brown sugar
Worcestershire sauce

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk, letting them soak for 5 minutes.

Making the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
Gently combine everything with your hands, mixing just until it comes together.
Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared pan.

Preparing and Adding the Glaze

In another bowl, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf before baking.

Baking

Bake for 35–40 minutes.
Add the remaining glaze during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes around 10 minutes to prep, 35–40 minutes to bake, and another 10 minutes to rest before serving.

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken: I sometimes swap the beef for another ground meat to lighten it up.
Add veggies: Finely grated carrots or zucchini blend in easily and add extra moisture and nutrition.
Try different herbs: I like to mix in fresh parsley or thyme when I have them on hand for a flavor boost.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover meatloaf in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, I slice it and warm it in the microwave or bake it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. If freezing, I wrap the cooked loaf tightly and keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the meat mixture in advance and refrigerate it until I’m ready to bake. It saves time on busy days.

What’s the best way to keep the meatloaf moist?

I make sure not to overmix the ingredients and always soak the breadcrumbs in milk. That helps lock in moisture and keeps the texture just right.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

I use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—it should reach 160°F (71°C).

Can I customize the glaze?

Definitely. Sometimes I add a splash of hot sauce or a dash of mustard to give it an extra zing.

What should I serve with this meatloaf?

My favorite sides include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, or a fresh garden salad.

Conclusion

This one-pound meatloaf is a comforting, easy-to-make meal that never fails. It’s full of flavor, has a tender texture, and the glaze takes it to the next level. Whether I’m feeding a small group or planning ahead, this recipe is always a reliable choice that I enjoy making again and again.