Bianca Houle JohnsonThis article details a 1lb meatloaf recipe, providing a comprehensive guide to its preparation, nutritional information, and helpful tips. This recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. The concise instructions and readily available ingredients make it accessible to home cooks of all skill levels. The recipe’s versatility allows for easy customization to suit individual preferences and dietary needs. A one-pound meatloaf provides a manageable portion size for one or two individuals.
A well-executed 1lb meatloaf recipe balances flavor and texture, resulting in a moist and flavorful main course. The recipe’s simplicity belies the depth of flavor that can be achieved through careful ingredient selection and preparation techniques. This recipe is a testament to the satisfying simplicity of classic cooking, providing a wholesome and comforting meal that is both delicious and easy to prepare. Achieving the perfect balance of herbs, spices, and binding agents is crucial for a successful outcome. This recipe provides a solid foundation for experimentation and customization to create personal variations.
Ingredients for a 1lb Meatloaf Recipe
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Ketchup for topping (optional)
Instructions for a 1lb Meatloaf Recipe
- Preheat oven to 375F (190C).
- In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf approximately 6 inches long and place it in a lightly greased baking dish.
- Top with ketchup, if desired.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160F (71C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time and Servings for this 1lb Meatloaf Recipe
This 1lb meatloaf recipe yields approximately 2 servings and requires approximately 50-60 minutes of total time, including prep and cooking. The timing can slightly vary depending on oven temperature and meatloaf size and density. Understanding these aspects is crucial for a consistently successful outcome. Properly following the instructions ensures a delicious and perfectly cooked meatloaf. The table below summarizes the cooking time and yields.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 45-50 minutes |
| Total Time | 55-60 minutes |
| Servings | 2 |
Nutritional Information for this 1lb Meatloaf Recipe
The nutritional content of this 1lb meatloaf recipe will vary slightly based on the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimation can be made considering the average nutritional value of common ingredients. This provides a useful guideline, though individual variations in ingredient brands can lead to slight differences. Accurate calculation requires specific nutritional data for each ingredient used. This information serves as an approximation and should not be considered exact.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~400 |
| Protein | ~35g |
| Fat | ~25g |
| Carbohydrates | ~15g |
Tips for Cooking a Perfect 1lb Meatloaf Recipe
Careful attention to detail can significantly enhance the outcome of this recipe. Mastering the techniques described below ensures consistent success. These tips aim to guide cooks towards achieving optimal flavor and texture in their meatloaf. Even seemingly minor adjustments can lead to noticeable improvements in the final dish.
- Don’t overmix the meat: Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
Overmixing develops the gluten in the breadcrumbs, leading to a denser, tougher texture. Gently incorporate all ingredients until evenly distributed.
Use a meat thermometer: This ensures the meatloaf is cooked through to a safe internal temperature of 160F (71C).
Using a meat thermometer eliminates guesswork and prevents undercooking. This is crucial for food safety and achieving optimal tenderness.
Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing helps retain juices and prevents it from falling apart.
Resting allows the meat fibers to relax, resulting in a more tender and juicy meatloaf. Slicing immediately after cooking can lead to moisture loss.
Add your favorite veggies: Finely chopped vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini can add flavor and nutrients.
Adding finely chopped vegetables enhances the flavor profile and provides added nutritional benefits. Consider incorporating vegetables that complement the overall flavor profile.
Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. A pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika can add depth of flavor.
Adjusting spices allows for personalization of the recipe to suit individual taste preferences. Experiment with different spice combinations to discover new flavors.
The versatility of a 1lb meatloaf recipe allows for customization according to personal preferences. The basic recipe presented here serves as a foundation upon which various alterations can be made. Experimentation with different ingredients and techniques helps to discover new flavor profiles and textures.
The careful selection of ingredients and execution of cooking techniques is critical to the overall success of this 1lb meatloaf. The proper balance of herbs and spices, combined with the precise cooking temperature and duration, is crucial for optimal flavor and texture. A correctly prepared 1lb meatloaf yields a flavorful, juicy, and satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions about this 1lb Meatloaf Recipe
This section addresses common queries related to the preparation and cooking of this 1lb meatloaf recipe. The answers provided aim to clarify any uncertainties and guide cooks toward a successful outcome. This comprehensive FAQ section aims to resolve potential issues and provide helpful solutions for any challenges that may be encountered.
- Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a combination of meats. However, the cooking time may need adjustment. Be mindful of the higher fat content in some ground meats, which may affect cooking time.
What if my meatloaf is dry?
This is often caused by overbaking or using too little moisture in the mixture. Next time, ensure the internal temperature reaches 160F (71C), but no more. Also, consider increasing the amount of milk or adding a tablespoon of mayonnaise.
Can I freeze this meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze cooked or uncooked meatloaf. For best results, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Allow it to thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.
A well-prepared 1lb meatloaf recipe consistently delivers a satisfying culinary experience. The relatively simple process, combined with the potential for creativity and customization, makes this recipe a valuable addition to any home cook’s repertoire. The detailed instructions and helpful tips provided ensure a positive cooking experience.
In conclusion, this 1lb meatloaf recipe provides a delicious and convenient meal option. By following the instructions and incorporating the provided tips, home cooks can confidently create a moist, flavorful, and satisfying meatloaf. The recipe’s versatility allows for personalization, catering to individual dietary needs and preferences.
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