1 pound meatloaf recipe
The Best 1 pound meatloaf recipe
My family loves meatloaf because it’s filling without being heavy, and it’s always a hit with kids—whether they’re picking at their plates or diving in with gusto. It’s that kind of dish that doesn’t demand perfection, but the effort you put in makes it worth it. And honestly, there’s something comforting about the smell of it baking in the oven, filling the house with warmth. It’s not just food; it’s a reminder of home. For special occasions, like holidays or birthday parties, it’s always a safe bet. And for everyday meals, it’s a no-fuss way to feed the family without stress. Plus, if you use lean ground beef and a mix of healthy binders like egg and breadcrumbs, it’s a decent source of protein and fiber, which makes it a little more balanced than you might think. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a treat, whether you’re serving it up or eating it yourself.
Classic Meatloaf with Homemade Sauce
A tender, flavorful meatloaf baked with a rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners. This recipe balances juicy meat with a simple, comforting sauce.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. -
2
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly coated. -
3
Press the mixture firmly into a loaf pan, shaping it into an even rectangle. Bake for 25 minutes. -
4
While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the sauce by heating olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add tomato paste, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir for 1 minute, then add tomato sauce. Simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. -
5
After 25 minutes, reduce oven temperature to 350°F. Pour the sauce over the meatloaf and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Loaf pan
- Baking sheet
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Oven
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Meatloaf with Homemade Sauce Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Meatloaf with Sauce
How do I store leftover meatloaf?
Store cooked meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze portions in a single layer on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating—microwaving directly from frozen can make it dry.
Can I substitute ground turkey for beef in this recipe?
Yes, you can! Use the same amount of ground turkey, but adjust the breadcrumbs slightly: add 1 extra tablespoon for better binding. Turkey meatloaf benefits from a slightly quicker cooking time (about 15–20 minutes less than beef), so check for doneness at 20 minutes rather than 25.
What if my meatloaf isn’t browned on top?
A pale crust is fine! If you prefer a crispier exterior, broil the loaf for 2–3 minutes after baking (watch closely to avoid burning). For extra browning, brush the top with melted butter or a light dusting of breadcrumbs before broiling.
How do I make sure the meatloaf is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to confirm the center reaches 160°F (71°C). Visually, it’s done when the edges pull away from the pan and the top is no longer pink inside. Overcooking can dry it out, so remove from oven 5 minutes before the suggested time if the center still feels warm.
Can I use this recipe for a freezer-friendly meatloaf?
Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked meatloaf in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before adding the sauce and baking. For best texture, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 45–50 minutes (add 10 minutes to the total time).
