Parmesan Meatloaf
There’s something truly comforting about a home-cooked dish that brings back memories of childhood meals. Parmesan Meatloaf is one of those recipes that effortlessly combines nostalgia with delicious flavors. Imagine a giant, juicy meatball that’s easy to make and bound to win over even the pickiest of eaters. This recipe has become a family favorite, and I’m sure it will be in your household too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re new to making meatloaf, this is the perfect recipe to start with. Not only is it straightforward, but it also delivers a succulent and savory meal that both adults and kids will enjoy. The blend of ground pork and beef, seasoned with Parmesan and herbs, creates a delightful taste reminiscent of traditional Italian cooking. Pair it with mashed potatoes, a side of veggies, and warm rolls for a comforting dinner that everyone will love.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan (glass recommended)
- Cooking spray
- Baking sheet
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 to 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 small yellow onion, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup pasta sauce (marinara, homemade, meatless)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Italian cheese blend)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a loaf pan with cooking spray and set it aside.
Step 2
In a large bowl, mix together the ground pork and beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, thyme, oregano, basil, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Step 3
Transfer the mixture into the greased loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Top the meatloaf with pasta sauce.
Step 4
Place the loaf pan on a baking sheet and bake for 1 hour.
Step 5
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and drain any excess grease.
Step 6
Sprinkle the top of the meatloaf with the remaining shredded cheese.
Step 7
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted.
Step 8
Take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Tips for Success
For the best results, handle the meat mixture as little as possible when combining ingredients. This will help ensure your meatloaf remains tender. Also, using a glass loaf pan can help with even cooking and easy cleanup.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to experiment with different herbs or add a bit of spice with red pepper flakes. If you’re a fan of smoky flavors, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika to the mix. You can also try different cheese blends to find your perfect match!
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use all beef instead of mixing pork and beef?
Yes, you can use all beef if you prefer. However, the combination of pork and beef adds a richer flavor.
Can I freeze the meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the meatloaf either before or after baking. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
You can substitute with crushed crackers or oats if preferred.
Conclusion
Give this Parmesan Meatloaf a try and let it become a staple in your family’s meal rotations. It’s a classic dish with a twist that everyone will appreciate. I’d love to hear how yours turns out, so feel free to share your experiences and any delicious variations you come up with!
