Dinner

1 Pound Meatloaf Recipe

ByLily Cross August 31, 2025August 31, 2025

This 1 Pound Meatloaf Recipe is about to become your weeknight hero! With a savory mix of tender ground beef, aromatic herbs, and a touch of zingy Worcestershire sauce, you’ll end up with a perfectly moist and flavorful loaf every single time. It’s a classic comfort food that’s easy to make, uses pantry staples, and delivers all the nostalgia of home-cooked goodness in just the right portion size—perfect for a small family or for enjoying delicious leftovers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This is the kind of ingredient list that proves simple truly is spectacular. Each element in the 1 Pound Meatloaf Recipe brings something essential—juiciness, depth, binding, or a punch of flavor—to create the perfect harmony in every slice.

Ground Beef (1 pound): The foundation of this recipe, providing robust flavor and hearty texture. Choose 80% lean for the ideal balance of moisture.
Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): These keep the loaf tender by soaking up juices and holding all the goodness together.
Egg (1 large): Acts as a natural binder, ensuring every slice holds its shape.
Milk (1/4 cup): Adds moisture and helps the breadcrumbs fully hydrate, keeping things from getting dry.
Onion, finely chopped (1/2 small): Infuses the meatloaf with subtle sweetness and depth—don’t skip this!
Garlic clove, minced (1): Just one clove brings gentle heat and aromatics that round out the umami flavors.
Ketchup (1 tablespoon): A touch adds tangy sweetness and classic meatloaf flair.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon): This kitchen staple brings bold, savory complexity to each bite.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for bringing every flavor forward.
Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): For gentle heat and balance.
Dried Italian Seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): Adds subtle herby notes to the background—think oregano and basil.
Optional Topping (2 tablespoons ketchup or BBQ sauce): For a glossy, caramelized finish that’s both sweet and tangy.

How to Make 1 Pound Meatloaf Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper or a light coating of cooking spray. This will ensure an easy release and less sticking, so every slice stays picture-perfect.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, add ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Using clean hands (the best tool here!) or a sturdy spoon, mix until everything is just combined. Resist the urge to overmix, as this will keep your 1 Pound Meatloaf Recipe from getting dense.

Step 3: Form and Pan Your Loaf

Gently shape the meat mixture into a loaf—aim for a roughly even thickness for even cooking. Transfer it to your prepared pan, pressing softly just to fit. If you love the classic saucy finish, now’s the time to brush the top with ketchup or BBQ sauce.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 35 to 45 minutes until golden, bubbling at the edges, and the internal temperature reads 160°F (71°C) on a meat thermometer. This ensures every forkful is juicy and safe to eat.

Step 5: Rest, Slice, and Serve

Let your meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This step is non-negotiable: it locks in juices and makes clean slicing a breeze. Serve your homemade 1 Pound Meatloaf Recipe warm, straight from the pan, for the coziest comfort food experience.

How to Serve 1 Pound Meatloaf Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of cracked black pepper over your meatloaf just before serving. For a bistro-style touch, add thinly sliced green onions or a little extra drizzle of ketchup or BBQ sauce—these tiny flourishes make everything feel extra special.

Side Dishes

You just can’t go wrong matching your 1 Pound Meatloaf Recipe with buttery mashed potatoes, crisp green beans, or classic roasted carrots. Even a simple tossed salad or fluffy dinner rolls make fantastic companions to soak up those savory juices.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to elevate your presentation, slice the meatloaf thickly and layer it atop creamy mashed potatoes, drizzle with pan juices, and finish with microgreens. Or, turn leftovers into sliders with mini buns, or cube and skewer them with roasted veggies for a playful appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any extra 1 Pound Meatloaf Recipe slices tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. Pop them in the fridge, where they’ll happily last for up to 3 days and retain all their tenderness.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the fully cooled meatloaf (whole or sliced) in plastic wrap followed by foil. Store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Label with the date so you never lose track—future you will be so grateful when craving comfort food!

Reheating

For best results, thaw frozen meatloaf in the fridge overnight. Reheat slices gently in the microwave with a splash of water, or warm the loaf in a covered dish at 300°F (150°C) for about 15–20 minutes, keeping everything moist and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! The 1 Pound Meatloaf Recipe is beautifully versatile—just be mindful that poultry can be leaner, so consider adding a little extra milk or grated vegetables to keep things juicy.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

No problem at all. You can swap in dried oregano, basil, parsley, or a combo of your favorite dried herbs. The flavor will still be rich and aromatic.

How do I know when my meatloaf is done?

Using a meat thermometer is the secret to perfectly cooked meatloaf—once the internal temperature hits 160°F (71°C), you’re good to go. This ensures it’s cooked through without ever drying out.

Can I make this 1 Pound Meatloaf Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap regular breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free variety or try crushed gluten-free crackers. The results are every bit as comforting and tasty.

Why does meatloaf need to rest before slicing?

Letting the meatloaf rest gives the juices time to redistribute, which makes for a moister, cleaner slice. If you cut too soon, all those delicious juices can run right out onto the cutting board.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about making—and sharing—this 1 Pound Meatloaf Recipe. It’s simple, foolproof, and packed with flavor, proving that comfort food never goes out of style. Give it a try the next time you need a crowd-pleaser or a cozy family dinner, and don’t be surprised if everyone asks for seconds!