When it comes to comfort food that makes everyone at the dinner table happy, Parmesan Meatloaf in Loaf Pan is a surefire winner. This delicious recipe combines lean ground beef and turkey with Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and a medley of herbs, creating a meatloaf that’s juicy, flavorful, and downright irresistible.
Taking inspiration from Italian cuisine, this dish adds the unmistakable flavor of Parmesan cheese, making it the ultimate comfort meal for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Meatloaf
Hearty and Flavorful: A savory blend of ground meats, herbs, and Parmesan cheese delivers a rich, satisfying taste.
Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make this dish perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
Versatile: Pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and can even be turned into a cheesy meatloaf sandwich.
Crowd-Pleaser: A hit with the whole family, especially for those who love Italian-inspired flavors.
Pair this meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables like green beans or carrots for a complete, well-balanced meal. For a touch of indulgence, serve slices in a sandwich with melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients for Parmesan Meatloaf in Loaf Pan
To create this delicious, cheesy meatloaf, you’ll need:
2 pounds lean ground meat (half turkey and half beef): Provides a balanced mix of flavor and lean protein.
2 large eggs: Acts as a binder, helping to hold the meatloaf together.
1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Adds texture and helps bind the mixture.
1/2 teaspoon each of basil, oregano, thyme: Classic Italian herbs that add flavor and aroma.
2 cloves minced garlic: Enhances the savory flavors.
1 diced onion: Adds sweetness and moisture.
1/2 cup marinara sauce: Adds a tangy, tomato-based layer on top.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The star ingredient that adds a nutty, salty flavor.
1/2 cup Italian cheese mix: A blend of mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, and other cheeses that melt beautifully on top.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
Ingredient Tips
Ground Meat: The combination of turkey and beef keeps the meatloaf lean yet flavorful. Feel free to use all beef or substitute with ground chicken if you prefer.
Breadcrumbs: Regular or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs work well; you can also use panko for a bit more texture.
Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese has the best flavor. The Italian cheese mix adds a deliciously melty finish; you can use mozzarella or provolone if you prefer.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade marinara for the best flavor. It adds moisture and a bit of acidity to balance the richness.
Instructions Outline
Here’s how to make Parmesan Meatloaf in Loaf Pan step-by-step:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine the Meat and Seasonings: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, lean ground turkey, eggs, breadcrumbs, basil, oregano, thyme, minced garlic, diced onion, salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Shape the Meatloaf: Press the meat mixture evenly into a loaf pan, making sure it is packed tightly.
Add the Marinara Sauce: Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf, which helps keep it moist and adds flavor.
Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Add the Cheese Topping: In the last 5-10 minutes of baking, sprinkle the Italian cheese mix over the top of the meatloaf. Allow it to melt and become bubbly.
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep it moist and prevents crumbling.
Serving Suggestions
This Parmesan Meatloaf pairs perfectly with a variety of sides:
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing that complements the savory flavors.
Steamed Vegetables: Green beans, carrots, or broccoli add color and nutrition.
Buttery Roasted Potatoes: For those who love potatoes in any form, these are perfect.
Fresh Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Bread: Great for soaking up any extra marinara sauce.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Make Ahead: The meatloaf mixture can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Storing Leftovers: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Variations and Substitutions
Here are some creative ways to customize this recipe:
Make It Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for some heat.
Use Different Cheeses: Try Asiago, fontina, or gouda for a different flavor twist.
Add Vegetables: Mix in some grated zucchini, carrots, or spinach for added nutrition and moisture.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
Final Note
This Parmesan Meatloaf in Loaf Pan is a delicious twist on a classic comfort food, combining juicy ground meat with Italian flavors and a cheesy topping that’s simply irresistible. Whether served with classic sides or reinvented as a sandwich, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.
Give this recipe a try, and watch your family and friends ask for more! Enjoy every savory, cheesy bite.
Parmesan Meatloaf in Loaf Pan
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 onion diced
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded Italian cheese mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef and turkey.
- Add eggs, breadcrumbs, basil, oregano, thyme, minced garlic, diced onion, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Press the mixture evenly into a loaf pan.
- Spread marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- In the last 5-10 minutes of baking, sprinkle the shredded Italian cheese mix over the top and let it melt.
- Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing.