Classic 1-Pound Ground Beef Meatloaf Recipe cooked to perfection, served on a plate - Yumaroma Save Pin

Classic 1-Pound Ground Beef Meatloaf Recipe

Juicy small-batch 1-pound ground beef meatloaf baked with breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire, and a sweet ketchup glaze.

Prep Time 15 min
Cook Time 40 min
Servings 4
Difficulty Easy
Calories 360 kcal
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When you want a wholesome, deeply satisfying meal that requires minimal cleanup, this Classic 1-Pound Ground Beef Meatloaf Recipe is a foolproof choice. Pairing beef 80/20, panko breadcrumbs and egg, beaten in just 55 min, it offers comforting flavor that family and dinner guests will genuinely savor.

Ingredients

4 servings
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Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Mix Meatloaf Loaf (10 Min)

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Gently combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, grated onion, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper.

2

Shape Loaf & Bake (30 Min)

Shape into 8x4-inch loaf on foil-lined baking sheet. **Bake** for 30 minutes.

3

Glaze Ketchup & Finish Baking (10 Min)

Brush sweet ketchup glaze over top. **Bake** 10 more minutes (40 minutes total baking time) until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C). Rest 5 minutes!

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Chef Amara’s Kitchen Secrets & Pro Tips

  • Grate Onion for Moisture: Grating onion on a box grater adds juice that keeps 1 lb meatloaf tender without dry chunks.
  • Bake on Freeform Pan: Baking freeform on a sheet pan lets fat drain away while sides brown evenly.

1. Let the Meat Rest Before Slicing: Transfer cooked meat to a cutting board for 5–10 minutes before carving. Resting allows tight muscle fibers to relax and redistribute savory juices evenly throughout the cut. 2. Season in Measured Layers: Introduce small pinches of salt at different cooking stages rather than dumping seasoning on at the end. This draws out moisture and seasons every ingredient to its core. 3. Chef's Kitchen Secret: Grate Onion for Moisture: Grating onion on a box grater adds juice that keeps 1 lb meatloaf tender without dry chunks.

Chef’s Cooking Guide & FAQs

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Troubleshooting & Quick Fixes

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  • What if the Sauce for Classic 1-Pound Ground Beef Meatloaf Recipe Separates or Feels Greasy?: If a dairy or emulsion sauce breaks, immediately take the pan off direct heat. Vigorously whisk in a tablespoon of hot water, broth, or cream until the velvety sheen re-emulsifies.
  • How to Rescue a Dish That Tastes Overly Salty?: Dilute with additional unsalted liquid (broth, cream, or water), or splash in a small touch of acid like fresh lemon juice or vinegar to soften sharp salinity.
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Storage, Freezing & Reheating Guidelines

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Store leftovers in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a preheated 350°F oven or covered skillet over medium-low heat until steaming hot throughout.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, this dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance, kept covered in the refrigerator, and baked or cooked when ready to serve.

Q: Can I substitute common pantry ingredients? A: Yes, this recipe is forgiving. Check our substitution notes in the ingredient card for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan alternatives.

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Kitchen Notes & Discussion

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Step 1 of 3

Mix Meatloaf Loaf (10 Min)

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Gently combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, grated onion, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper.

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