Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's also easy on the weeknight schedule? Then look no further! This 1 lb hamburger meatloaf recipe is your answer. Perfect for a quick dinner, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. Homemade cooking doesn't get much simpler than this!
Ingredients:
This recipe uses just one pound of ground beef, making it perfect for smaller households or when you want a manageable portion.
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Let's get cooking! These simple steps will guide you through creating this delicious and satisfying meatloaf.
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. This ensures even distribution throughout the meatloaf, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing; gentle mixing helps retain the moisture and tenderness of the meatloaf.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf: Lightly grease a small baking dish (approximately 8x8 inches). Shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf within the dish.
Step 4: Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here to ensure it's cooked through.
Step 5: Rest and Serve: Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures your meatloaf is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Add your favorite veggies: Finely diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers can be added to the mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Top with glaze: For an extra touch, brush the top of the meatloaf with BBQ sauce or a sweet and savory glaze during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the meatloaf before baking.
- Mushroom Meatloaf: Add 1/2 cup of chopped mushrooms to the meat mixture for an earthy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This 1 lb hamburger meatloaf recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are both quick and easy to prepare. It’s a satisfying and flavorful meal that's ideal for busy weeknights, offering a convenient and healthy alternative to takeout. Enjoy!