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Delicious Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf served with sides on a plate

Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf

A comforting and satisfying meatloaf infused with garlic and Parmesan, perfect for family dinners and cozy evenings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound lean ground beef For a lighter loaf, substitute half with ground turkey.
  • ½ cup fine breadcrumbs For a gluten-free option, replace with almond flour or gluten-free crumbs.
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed Use fresh for the best flavor.
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Not pre-shredded for best melt and flavor.
  • ½ cup milk Dairy or unsweetened plant milk works to moisten the mixture.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped Flat-leaf is ideal.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Or 1 tablespoon fresh, minced.
  • to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
Optional Glaze
  • to taste warm garlic butter or marinara sauce For brushing in the last minutes of baking.

Method
 

Preheat and Prepare
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or prepare a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Combine the Binders and Liquids
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth.
Mix the Base Ingredients
  1. In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, dried oregano, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Pour in the egg and milk mixture.
Combine Gently
  1. Fold the ingredients together until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the loaf tender.
Shape the Loaf
  1. Transfer the mixture to your prepared loaf pan and press gently to level, or shape it into a tight loaf on a lined baking sheet.
Bake Until Almost Done
  1. Place in the oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, checking for doneness at 35 minutes.
Add Optional Glaze
  1. In the final 10 minutes of baking, brush the top with warmed garlic butter or marinara sauce.
Check the Internal Temperature
  1. Insert an instant-read thermometer into the center. Safe internal temperature for ground beef is 160°F (71°C).
Rest the Meatloaf
  1. Remove from the oven and let the loaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Slice and Serve
  1. Use a sharp knife to slice into even portions and serve immediately.

Notes

Classic pairings include creamy mashed potatoes or roasted green beans. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.