Introduction

This one-pound meatloaf recipe is a straightforward, flavorful classic perfect for a comforting meal. Coated with tangy BBQ sauce and seasoned simply, it bakes up moist and tender every time. It’s an easy dish that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

3 Tbsp. BBQ sauce, divided
1 tsp. Italian seasoning
½ tsp. garlic powder
½ tsp. onion powder
½ tsp. salt
¼ tsp. pepper
1 egg, lightly beaten
¼ cup dry breadcrumbs
1 lb. lean ground beef

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of BBQ sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and the lightly beaten egg. Mix well to combine.
Step 3: Add the ground beef to the bowl and sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the mixture. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Step 4: Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Shape it into a loaf measuring about 6 inches long by 3 inches wide and 1½ inches high. Brush the top, sides, and ends of the loaf with 1 tablespoon of BBQ sauce.
Step 5: Bake the meatloaf at 350°F for 30 minutes. Then remove it from the oven and spread the remaining 1 tablespoon of BBQ sauce evenly over the top.
Step 6: Increase the oven temperature to 450°F and return the meatloaf to bake until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, about 8 to 12 more minutes.
Step 7: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 7 to 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the temperature to rise to 165°F for safe eating. Use two spatulas to transfer the loaf to a cutting board, then slice into 8 pieces and serve.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, add a splash of milk or a small diced onion to the meat mixture before baking.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef for a leaner version.
Use crushed crackers instead of breadcrumbs if preferred.
Top with additional BBQ sauce or a drizzle of ketchup to serve for added flavor.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave or oven until heated through. Meatloaf also freezes well for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and shape the loaf a day ahead. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate overnight, then bake as directed the next day.

What is the best way to check if the meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F. This guarantees that the meatloaf is safely cooked but still juicy.

BBQ Meatloaf Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 68 reviews

This One Pound Meatloaf recipe is a simple and flavorful dish featuring lean ground beef seasoned with Italian herbs, garlic, onion, and tangy BBQ sauce. It is baked to perfection, ensuring a juicy and tender loaf that’s coated with a glossy BBQ sauce glaze. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this meatloaf offers comforting flavors and an inviting aroma.

Author: Marco
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf

1 lb. lean ground beef
1 egg, lightly beaten
¼ cup dry breadcrumbs
1 tsp. Italian seasoning
½ tsp. garlic powder
½ tsp. onion powder
½ tsp. salt
¼ tsp. pepper
3 Tbsp. BBQ sauce, divided

Instructions

Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.
Mix meatloaf ingredients: In a large bowl, add 1 tablespoon of BBQ sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and the lightly beaten egg. Mix these together thoroughly. Add the lean ground beef and sprinkle the dry breadcrumbs on top. Use your hands to mix all ingredients thoroughly but avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Shape and brush the loaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Shape it into a loaf approximately 6 inches long, 3 inches wide, and about 1½ inches high. Coat the top, sides, and ends of the loaf with 1 tablespoon of BBQ sauce using a brush.
Initial baking: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven at 350°F for 30 minutes. This slow baking helps the flavors meld and cooks the meat through gently.
Apply additional BBQ sauce and increase heat: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining 1 tablespoon of BBQ sauce evenly over the top and sides to create a flavorful glaze. Then increase oven temperature to 450°F.
Final bake until done: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 8 to 12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, ensuring it is fully cooked.
Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 7 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows juices to redistribute and the temperature to rise slightly to 165°F for safe serving. Use two spatulas to carefully transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board, slice into 8 pieces, and serve.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep the texture tender.
Resting the meatloaf after baking helps retain juiciness.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked safely to 160°F internal temperature.
Feel free to substitute BBQ sauce with ketchup or tomato sauce if preferred.
This recipe can be doubled for larger gatherings.

Keywords: meatloaf, BBQ meatloaf, baked meatloaf, ground beef recipe, easy meatloaf, classic meatloaf