Delicious One Pound Meatloaf Quick Easy Power Meal Prep
Table of Contents
Introduction
In a world where convenience often trumps quality, have you ever wondered if it’s possible to create a delicious, homemade meatloaf that doesn’t require hours of prep time? Introducing the One Pound Meatloaf – a recipe that defies the notion that a wholesome, satisfying meal has to be time-consuming. With just a few simple ingredients and a streamlined cooking process, this meatloaf is poised to become your new weeknight go-to. Get ready to discover how easy it is to serve up a comforting, family-friendly dish that will have your loved ones coming back for seconds.
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus more for topping)
Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or a blend of ground meats for a variation on the classic. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Timing
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 75 minutes
The One Pound Meatloaf is a quick and efficient recipe, requiring 20% less time to prepare than the average meatloaf dish. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want to serve a wholesome, homemade meal without sacrificing precious time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your meatloaf will cook evenly and develop a delicious, golden-brown crust.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, onion, and garlic. Use your hands or a fork to mix the ingredients thoroughly, being careful not to overmix, which can result in a dense, tough meatloaf.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the seasoned ground beef mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a free-form loaf on a baking sheet. Gently press the mixture into the pan or shape it into an even, oblong loaf to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf
Spread the ketchup over the top of the meatloaf, ensuring even coverage. This will create a delicious glaze as the meatloaf bakes. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the loaf, resulting in a moist and flavorful final product. Slice the meatloaf and serve it hot, with additional ketchup or your favorite condiments on the side.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 310 per serving
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
- Sodium: 690mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make the One Pound Meatloaf even more nutritious, consider the following substitutions:
- Use lean ground turkey or a blend of ground turkey and beef to reduce the overall fat and calorie content.
- Swap the breadcrumbs for whole-wheat breadcrumbs or oats to increase the fiber and complex carbohydrates.
- Replace the milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Increase the amount of vegetables by adding finely chopped carrots, bell peppers, or spinach to the meatloaf mixture.
Serving Suggestions
The One Pound Meatloaf pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Consider serving it with:
- Roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food pairing
- A fresh, crisp salad to balance the richness of the meatloaf
- Steamed or roasted vegetables, such as green beans, carrots, or broccoli
- Warm, crusty bread or rolls to soak up the delicious juices
For a truly indulgent experience, top the meatloaf with a dollop of creamy mashed potatoes and a drizzle of savory gravy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your One Pound Meatloaf turns out perfectly every time, be mindful of these common pitfalls:
- Overmixing the Ingredients: Avoid over-mixing the meatloaf mixture, as this can lead to a dense, tough texture. Gently combine the ingredients until they are just incorporated.
- Under-Seasoning: Make sure to season the meatloaf mixture generously with salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor. You can also experiment with additional herbs and spices to your taste.
- Overcooking: Keep a close eye on the meatloaf during the baking process to prevent it from becoming dry and crumbly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Skimping on the Ketchup Glaze: The ketchup topping not only adds a delicious sweetness but also helps to keep the meatloaf moist. Be sure to spread it evenly over the top of the loaf.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
The One Pound Meatloaf is the perfect make-ahead meal. Here are some tips to ensure your leftovers stay fresh and flavorful:
- Refrigerating: Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
- Freezing: For longer-term storage, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Prepping Ingredients: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. This makes for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
Conclusion
The One Pound Meatloaf is a simple, yet incredibly satisfying recipe that proves you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal. With its perfectly seasoned, juicy interior and delectable ketchup glaze, this meatloaf is sure to become a new family favorite. Try it tonight and let us know what you think in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more easy, yet impressive recipes like this one.
FAQs
A: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this recipe. It will result in a slightly leaner meatloaf, but the flavor and texture will still be delicious. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if needed, as turkey may cook faster than beef.
B: How can I make the meatloaf more moist?
To keep your meatloaf extra moist, try adding a bit more milk or breadcrumbs to the mixture. You can also baste the top of the meatloaf with additional ketchup or Worcestershire sauce during the baking process. Avoiding overcooking is also key to maintaining a juicy, tender texture.
C: Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, the One Pound Meatloaf is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Alternatively, you can bake the meatloaf and refrigerate or freeze the leftovers for easy reheating later on.
D: How can I make the meatloaf more flavorful?
To amplify the flavor, try adding a variety of herbs and spices to the meatloaf mixture, such as dried thyme, rosemary, or even a dash of smoked paprika. You can also experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, such as panko or seasoned breadcrumbs, to enhance the overall taste.
E: Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
Absolutely! Finely chopped vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or spinach can be easily incorporated into the meatloaf mixture to add extra nutrition and flavor. Just be sure not to overload the mixture, as too many add-ins can affect the texture of the final product.
Print
Delicious One Pound Meatloaf Quick Easy Power Meal Prep
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Delicious 1lb meatloaf Quick easy power meal prep Flavorful customizable recipe Ideal for busy lifestyles
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 310
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
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