Easy 4 Ingredient Meatloaf Recipe Perfect for Cozy Comfort Food
A simple and comforting meatloaf recipe made with just four ingredients that comes together quickly and delivers hearty, delicious flavor perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 60-70 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
- 1 cup (90 grams) breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned; almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-free option)
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 cup (240 ml) marinara sauce (jarred or homemade)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine 1 pound (450 g) ground beef, 1 cup (90 g) breadcrumbs, and 1 large egg. Mix gently with hands or spatula until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf about 8×4 inches (20×10 cm) in a loaf pan or baking dish. Do not pack too tightly.
- Spread 1 cup (240 ml) marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until a meat thermometer inserted in the center reads 160°F (71°C) and juices run clear. Tent with foil if browning too fast.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
Do not overmix the meat to avoid a tough meatloaf. Let the meatloaf rest before slicing for moist slices. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Optional additions include Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, or grated vegetables for extra flavor and moisture. Baking on a rimmed baking sheet or rack can create a crispier crust.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of meat
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 18
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 22
Keywords: meatloaf, easy meatloaf, 4 ingredient meatloaf, comfort food, quick dinner, simple meatloaf, cozy meal