Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's both easy to make and satisfying to eat? Look no further! This recipe for a one-pound meatloaf is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. It's a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly quick dish that’s perfect for home cooks of all levels. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this homemade classic!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for best texture)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small loaf pan (approximately 5x3 inches) or use parchment paper for easy removal. This is a crucial step for preventing sticking and ensuring a clean release.
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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, as this can make the meatloaf tough. Mix until just combined.
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Shape the Loaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a neat loaf.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through. This guarantees a juicy and safe meatloaf.
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Rest & Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Meatloaf:
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Don't Overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture will make it tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
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Add Some Flavor: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your meatloaf. Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick or some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
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Glaze it Up: For an extra layer of flavor, brush the top of the meatloaf with your favorite barbecue sauce or a glaze during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Variations:
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Add Vegetables: Finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers can be added to the meatloaf mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.
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Make it Cheesy: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella on top of the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.
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Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier meatloaf.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This simple one-pound meatloaf recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Perfect for quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking, it's a delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!