Ultimate Juicy Parmesan Meatloaf: 5 Easy Steps to Dinner Perfection

Are you tired of dry, flavorless meatloaf that leaves your family pushing their plates away? What if I told you that you could create a mouthwatering, cheesy masterpiece that’ll have them begging for seconds? Get ready to revolutionize your dinner game with our foolproof 5-step Parmesan Meatloaf recipe. This isn’t just any meatloaf; it’s a flavor explosion that’ll elevate you to dinner hero status faster than you can say “seconds, please!” So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of juicy, cheesy perfection that’s about to make you the talk of the dinner table!

Ingredients

To begin making the Parmesan Meatloaf, gather these essential components:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan

First and foremost, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get ready for baking the Parmesan Meatloaf. Then, lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.

2. Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, 3/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly, but be careful not to overmix.

3. Shape the Meatloaf

Next, transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into an even loaf of Parmesan-flavored perfection.

4. Add the Cheese Topping

Subsequently, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the top of the meatloaf.

5. Bake to Perfection

Finally, bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Serving Suggestions

Once done, let the Parmesan Meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful. You can serve it with:

• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted vegetables
• A fresh green salad

Tips for Success

• For extra moisture, consider adding 1/4 cup of grated zucchini to the Parmesan Meatloaf mixture.
• If you prefer a firmer texture, use 90% lean beef instead of 80%.
• To enhance the flavor, you can add 1 tbsp of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture.

Variations

Feel free to customize this Parmesan Meatloaf recipe to your liking. Here are some ideas:

• Use ground turkey for a leaner option
• Add chopped bell peppers for extra vegetables
• Mix in some sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist

Storage and Reheating Parmesan Meatloaf

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual slices or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Parmesan Meatloaf is a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. With its cheesy goodness and moist texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Why not give Parmesan Meatloaf a try for your next dinner?

Parmesan Meatloaf

A mouthwatering twist on classic comfort food, this Parmesan Meatloaf combines savory ground meat with rich, melty Parmesan cheese for an irresistibly juicy and flavorful main dish. Easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe elevates the humble meatloaf to gourmet status.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Get ingredients with

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Prepare the meat mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
• Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
• Top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese: Spread the marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese (if using).
• Bake the meatloaf: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
• Let it rest: Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Tips and Variations:

• Use a different type of cheese: Use a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, for a unique flavor.
• Add some Italian seasonings: Add some Italian seasonings, such as oregano or basil, to the meat mixture for added flavor.
• Use a different type of meat: Use a different type of meat, such as ground turkey or pork, for a unique flavor and texture.
• Add some chopped veggies: Add some chopped veggies, such as bell peppers or onions, to the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

Parmesan Meatloaf Variations:

• Spicy Parmesan Meatloaf: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for an extra kick of heat.
• Italian-Style Parmesan Meatloaf: Add some chopped prosciutto or pancetta to the meat mixture for a salty, savory flavor.
• Veggie Parmesan Meatloaf: Add some chopped veggies, such as zucchini or eggplant, to the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

I hope you enjoy this recipe for Parmesan Meatloaf! Let me know if you have any questions or if you’d like any substitutions or variations.