garlic parmesan meatloaves Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting dinner that feels cozy, decadent, and just a little bit special, look no further than garlic parmesan meatloaves. This recipe turns the classic family favorite on its head by infusing each tender mini loaf with a generous helping of savory parmesan and roasted garlic, delivering a dinner that’s bursting with flavor, golden on top, and pleasantly moist every time. Garlic parmesan meatloaves easily earn a place at your Sunday table or make a craveable weeknight spin on a nostalgic dish, thanks to their irresistible aroma and bold, cheesy character.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to garlic parmesan meatloaves is starting with simple, everyday ingredients, then letting each one shine. Every element brings a layer of flavor, moisture, or richness that really makes this dish irresistible. Here’s what you’ll gather:

• Ground beef: Choose 80/20 for a juicy, flavorful meatloaf base.
• Fresh garlic: Roasted or minced, it’s the powerhouse that infuses aromatic depth throughout the loaves.
• Parmesan cheese: Finely grated for maximum melt and cheesy richness in every bite.
• Breadcrumbs: Help hold the mini meatloaves together while soaking up flavorful juices.
• Milk: Adds moisture, so your loaves turn out luxuriously tender.
• Egg: Acts as a binder to keep your meatloaves perfectly shaped.
• Italian seasoning: Brings herby notes to lift the overall flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper: Just the basics, but don’t skimp – proper seasoning is key.
• Fresh parsley: For color and a hint of freshness sprinkled on top.
• Olive oil: Used to sauté garlic and keep things moist.

How to Make garlic parmesan meatloaves

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Begin by roasting your fresh garlic for a sweet, mellow flavor. Slice off the top of a garlic bulb, drizzle it with olive oil, wrap it in foil, and roast at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30 minutes. Once cool, squeeze out those golden, roasted cloves and mash them to a paste — they’ll provide incredible depth to your garlic parmesan meatloaves.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, milk, egg, Italian seasoning, mashed roasted garlic, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Mix lightly with your hands or a fork until just blended; overmixing can lead to dense meatloaves, so keep it gentle!

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaves

Divide the mixture into individual portions (about the size of a tennis ball) and shape each into a small loaf. Lining a sheet pan with parchment helps with clean-up and prevents sticking. This step also ensures that every garlic parmesan meatloaf bakes up with lots of golden crust and cheesy bits peeking out.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake your meatloaves in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 22-28 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Right before the timer goes off, sprinkle a little extra parmesan on top for that irresistible cheesy crust.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Let the garlic parmesan meatloaves rest for a few minutes once out of the oven. This helps all those savory juices redistribute, making every slice succulent. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve while piping hot.

How to Serve garlic parmesan meatloaves

Garnishes

For that final touch, I love showering the warm meatloaves with extra grated parmesan and a confetti of vibrant parsley. A drizzle of good olive oil or a crack of black pepper heightens the aroma and enhances their gorgeous, golden color.

Side Dishes

Classic mashed potatoes or buttery noodles are right at home beside garlic parmesan meatloaves. Pair with roasted green beans, a crisp Caesar salad, or even garlic bread to echo the star flavors for a well-rounded, comforting plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling playful, make mini slider versions and serve on brioche buns with a dollop of garlicky aioli. Or, slice each loaf and layer over a bed of creamy polenta – the cheese and garlic notes pop even more this way.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover garlic parmesan meatloaves keep beautifully. Store cooled loaves in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They make a fantastic next-day lunch when sliced cold for a hearty sandwich.

Freezing

These meatloaves are fantastic meal-prep stars. After baking and cooling, tightly wrap individual loaves in foil or plastic, then tuck them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm refrigerated or thawed loaves gently in a covered baking dish at 325 degrees Fahrenheit until hot throughout. A splash of broth on the pan keeps things extra moist, and a quick blast under the broiler will restore their golden, cheesy tops.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Both turkey and chicken work well, though you may want to add a splash more milk for moisture since these meats are leaner. The garlic parmesan twist still comes through deliciously with either swap.

What’s the best way to roast garlic if I’m short on time?

If you’re pressed for time, mince the garlic and sauté it gently in olive oil until golden instead of roasting. It gives a slightly sharper flavor, but still brings plenty of garlicky punch to the meatloaves.

Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance?

Yes! Mix everything the night before, cover tightly, and store in the fridge. Shape and bake fresh when you’re ready to serve. Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before forming the loaves so it’s easier to handle.

How do I make sure my meatloaves stay moist?

The combination of milk, breadcrumbs, and egg ensures your garlic parmesan meatloaves turn out juicy. Be sure not to overbake, and letting them rest a few minutes after baking really helps retain moisture.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Definitely! Swap traditional breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free variety or use crushed gluten-free crackers. Everything else stays the same and results in a flavorful, hearty loaf everyone can enjoy.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend garlic parmesan meatloaves enough – they’re simple to make, always satisfying, and certain to become a comfort food classic in your home. Give this twisty take on a beloved dish a try soon; your kitchen will smell amazing, and your table will be filled with happy faces!

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