This one-pound meatloaf recipe brings back the warm nostalgia of classic family dinners. It’s tender, savory, and topped with a simple ketchup glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Ideal for smaller households or anyone who craves a quick and satisfying homemade meal.
Using minimal ingredients and simple techniques, this meatloaf comes together effortlessly and bakes to perfection in under an hour. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving a comforting Sunday supper, this timeless dish delivers every single time.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef (80/20)
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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 finely chopped onion
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1/4 cup ketchup (plus more for topping)
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes to absorb.
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Add the ground beef, egg, chopped onion, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
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Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Do not overmix.
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Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared loaf pan.
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Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top for a classic glaze.
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Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until 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: 55 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why the One-Pound Meatloaf Is a Must-Have in Your Recipe Collection
One-pound meatloaf is the kind of meal that speaks directly to the heart of home cooking. It’s nostalgic, hearty, budget-friendly, and deeply satisfying. A staple of American dinner tables for generations, meatloaf is often associated with warmth, family, and comfort. Whether you’re serving it on a weeknight or as part of a Sunday spread, this dish delivers timeless flavor and rich texture with minimal ingredients and effort.
Unlike larger meatloaf recipes designed to feed a crowd, the one-pound version is ideal for couples, small families, or solo diners who love leftovers. It’s portioned just right—enough to serve a hearty dinner and still have a slice or two for sandwiches the next day. This scaled-down approach not only reduces waste but also makes cleanup quicker and cooking more manageable.
What Makes This Version of Meatloaf So Special
What truly sets this one-pound meatloaf apart is its perfect balance of moistness, flavor, and structure. Many meatloaf recipes struggle with dryness, but this one leverages milk-soaked breadcrumbs and just the right fat ratio in the beef (80/20) to ensure every bite is juicy and tender. The addition of ketchup both inside and on top adds a tangy sweetness that complements the savory meat mixture.
Worcestershire sauce is another key player—it adds depth and a subtle umami kick that elevates the dish without overpowering it. Onion and garlic powder bring in warmth and aroma, tying everything together into a beautifully seasoned loaf. It’s a testament to how humble ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create a truly comforting and delicious meal.
Versatility and Customization
One of the best aspects of this meatloaf recipe is how easy it is to customize. If you prefer a leaner dish, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken, although you may want to add a bit of olive oil or extra vegetables to keep the loaf moist. For a low-carb version, swap the breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour. You can even sneak in finely grated carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrients and moisture.
The glaze, often just a smear of ketchup, can also be modified. Want something bolder? Mix ketchup with barbecue sauce or hot sauce for a smoky or spicy finish. Even a brush of balsamic glaze can add a gourmet twist. With such flexibility, this meatloaf can evolve with your pantry, dietary needs, or simply your craving of the day.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
Because this meatloaf holds its shape well and slices cleanly, it’s an ideal candidate for meal prepping. Once baked and cooled, it can be sliced and stored in airtight containers for up to four days in the refrigerator. The slices reheat beautifully in the microwave or a skillet and even taste delicious cold in sandwiches. Pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh side salad, and you’ve got several complete meals from one simple loaf.
Leftovers aren’t just convenient—they’re delicious. Cold meatloaf makes for an incredible sandwich when layered with lettuce, tomato, and a touch of mayo on toasted bread. Crumbled pieces can also be added to pasta sauces or used in wraps, turning one dish into multiple meal options throughout the week.
Why Smaller Portions Make Sense
While traditional meatloaf recipes are great for feeding a crowd, not everyone needs a large loaf. The one-pound version is less intimidating, quicker to bake, and just as satisfying. It’s perfect for those who live alone or with one other person, or for anyone who wants a taste of home-cooked comfort without dealing with too many leftovers.
Smaller portions also give you the freedom to experiment more often. Instead of committing to a giant loaf with one flavor profile, you can try different seasonings and glazes each time you cook. Want a Tex-Mex twist? Add cumin, chili powder, and salsa. Craving Mediterranean? Incorporate oregano, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil. The one-pound format opens the door to creativity without waste.
A Comfort Classic That’s Budget-Friendly
In times when grocery costs are climbing, meals like this stand out as economical and practical. Ground beef remains one of the most affordable and accessible proteins, and the rest of the ingredients—breadcrumbs, ketchup, egg, milk—are pantry staples in most households. This means you can whip up a filling and comforting dinner without a special grocery trip or a hefty bill.
It also makes a great option for families trying to stretch their food budget while still enjoying satisfying, nutritious meals. Serve it alongside some inexpensive but flavorful sides like roasted carrots, steamed green beans, or buttery mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a well-rounded dinner that pleases all ages.
Tips for the Best One-Pound Meatloaf
Even with a simple dish like meatloaf, a few smart techniques can make a big difference. First, avoid overmixing the meat—this can make the final texture tough and dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Second, let the loaf rest after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice more moist and flavorful. Finally, if you like a crispier exterior, consider baking the loaf freeform on a lined baking sheet instead of in a loaf pan. This exposes more surface area to heat and gives you a firmer crust all around.
What to Serve With One-Pound Meatloaf
Classic side dishes are always welcome here. Mashed potatoes with gravy, buttery corn on the cob, and steamed green beans are tried-and-true favorites. But don’t be afraid to mix it up. Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze, a tangy cucumber salad, or creamy mac and cheese can elevate your meatloaf dinner to new heights.
You can also go lighter with your sides—think a simple green salad with vinaigrette or some sautéed zucchini. If you’re turning leftovers into a sandwich, serve it with kettle chips or a crunchy pickle for that diner-style vibe.
Why This Dish Will Never Go Out of Style
There’s something incredibly grounding about a dish like meatloaf. In a fast-paced world full of takeout and trendy fusions, a slice of meatloaf reconnects us with the comfort of home, the joy of cooking with our hands, and the simplicity of hearty food done well. It’s the kind of meal that evokes childhood memories, family conversations, and the delicious scent of dinner wafting through the kitchen.
Even better, its humble roots don’t mean it can’t be dressed up. Whether served as part of a formal dinner with wine and roasted vegetables or eaten in a sandwich at your desk, it offers versatility that few dishes can match. It’s a meal that adapts to the moment while staying true to itself.
Conclusion
The one-pound meatloaf is more than just a smaller version of a classic dish—it’s a practical, delicious, and comforting answer to busy weeknights, meal prep dilemmas, and budget-conscious cooking. With its simple ingredients, customizable nature, and reliable taste, it’s a must-have in any home cook’s repertoire.
Whether you’re new to the kitchen or a seasoned pro, this recipe offers the kind of satisfaction that only timeless comfort food can bring. Serve it fresh out of the oven with your favorite sides, enjoy the leftovers for lunch, and you’ll quickly see why this humble meatloaf has earned its place at the dinner table time and time again.