Parmesan Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on the classic comfort food. This dish combines the hearty texture of ground meat with the nutty, salty taste of Parmesan cheese for a truly satisfying meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings and pairs well with a variety of side dishes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with flavor thanks to Parmesan cheese and seasonings.
- Easy to prepare, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks.
- A crowd-pleaser that works for family dinners or potlucks.
- Versatile – can be customized with your favorite herbs or ingredients.
- Makes great leftovers for sandwiches or reheating.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
- Breadcrumbs
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Eggs
- Garlic
- Onion
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Tomato sauce or ketchup for topping
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a loaf pan or baking sheet.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined but do not overwork the mixture.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan or directly on the baking sheet.
- Spread a layer of tomato sauce or ketchup over the top of the meatloaf for a flavorful glaze.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe serves approximately 6-8 people.
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 50-60 minutes
- Total time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy Core: Add a layer of mozzarella or provolone cheese in the center for a gooey surprise.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Vegetable Boost: Include grated zucchini or carrots for added moisture and nutrition.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats as a substitute.
- Turkey Meatloaf: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the meatloaf tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave or cover the meatloaf with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
FAQs
How do I know when my meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). Use a meat thermometer to check.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative.
Why does my meatloaf fall apart?
This could be due to not enough binding agents like eggs or breadcrumbs. Make sure to mix thoroughly without overworking.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the meat mixture, shape it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What sides go well with Parmesan Meatloaf?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad pair perfectly.
Can I skip the tomato sauce topping?
Yes, but the tomato sauce adds flavor and helps keep the meatloaf moist.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Swap Parmesan for a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.
Is it better to use fresh or dried herbs?
Either works, but fresh herbs provide a more vibrant flavor. Use a smaller amount of dried herbs if substituting.
What kind of breadcrumbs should I use?
Plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs are ideal. Panko can also be used for a lighter texture.
How do I prevent my meatloaf from being dry?
Avoid overcooking and use ingredients like eggs and breadcrumbs to retain moisture.
Conclusion
Parmesan Meatloaf is a delightful take on a beloved classic. Its rich flavor and comforting texture make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for family dinners or impressing guests, this dish is sure to satisfy. Try it today and enjoy a slice of hearty goodness!
Print
Parmesan Meatloaf
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Parmesan Meatloaf is a delightful twist on the classic comfort dish, combining savory ground meats with Italian herbs and a generous amount of Parmesan cheese. This recipe yields a moist and flavorful meatloaf that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- Meats:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- Binders and Fillers:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Aromatics and Seasonings:
- 1 small onion, finely minced
- 1–2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Toppings:
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded Italian cheese blend
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Meat Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground turkey, eggs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced onion, minced garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated, being careful not to overmix to maintain tenderness.
- Shape and Bake:
- Lightly grease a loaf pan or baking sheet. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
- Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Place the pan on a baking sheet to catch any drippings, and bake in the preheated oven for 45–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Add Cheese Topping:
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and sprinkle the shredded Italian cheese blend on top.
- Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve:
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and makes slicing easier.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional marinara sauce if desired.
Notes
- For a leaner option, you can use all ground turkey instead of a beef and turkey mix.
- Feel free to add chopped fresh herbs like parsley for extra freshness.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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