Parmesan Meatloaf Recipe
Servings: 6-8
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean)
- ½ pound ground pork
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- For the Topping:
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal later.
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, and eggs. Mix well until the eggs are fully incorporated.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix everything thoroughly.
- Pour in the milk and mix until the meat mixture is moist and holds together.
- Gradually add the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, mixing until evenly distributed throughout the meat. The mixture should be firm but not too dry. If it feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs; if it feels too dry, add a splash more milk.
- Shape the Meatloaf:
- Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down firmly and evenly. Shape the top to create a slightly domed surface.
- Add the Topping:
- Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will help keep it moist and add a tangy flavor.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the marinara sauce.
- Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the Parmesan for a gooey, cheesy topping.
- Bake the Meatloaf:
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The cheese on top should be golden and bubbly.
- If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Rest the Meatloaf:
- Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf easier to slice.
- Serve:
- Carefully remove the meatloaf from the pan and transfer it to a cutting board. Slice it into thick pieces and serve.
- Serving Suggestions:
- This Parmesan meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh garden salad. For a little extra flavor, serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or drizzle over the slices.
- Storing Leftovers:
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through or microwave individual slices for a quicker option.
- Variations:
- Stuffed Meatloaf: For an extra special twist, you can stuff the meatloaf with mozzarella cheese or sautéed spinach. Simply form the meat mixture into a flat rectangle, add the stuffing in the center, and roll it up before placing it in the loaf pan.
- Spicy Meatloaf: Increase the red pepper flakes and add a few dashes of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Meatloaf: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage to change up the flavor profile.
Tips:
- Meat Mixture: Don’t overwork the meat mixture when combining ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough meatloaf.
- Cheese: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of the pre-grated variety. It melts better and has a richer taste.
- Resting Time: Always allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing. This step is crucial for maintaining the meatloaf’s shape and keeping it juicy.
This Parmesan Meatloaf is a comforting dish that brings together the savory flavors of Italian seasoning and the richness of Parmesan cheese. It’s a hearty meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.