This Easy Herb-Crusted Parmesan Meatloaf is a delicious twist on the classic comfort food. It combines the nostalgic flavors of grandma’s meatloaf with a vibrant herb crust and a golden, cheesy topping, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both familiar and exciting.
Why You’ll Love This Herb-Crusted Parmesan Meatloaf:
- Classic Comfort with a Twist: This recipe elevates the classic meatloaf with a flavorful herb crust and a cheesy topping, appealing to both adults and kids.
- Packed with Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and oregano add a delightful depth of flavor to the meatloaf.
- Irresistible Cheesy Crust: A generous layer of Parmesan cheese creates a golden brown, crispy crust that takes this dish to the next level.
- Easy Weeknight Meal: With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Building Your Herb-Crusted Masterpiece:
- Savory Meatloaf Base: Ground beef forms the foundation, seasoned to perfection with classic meatloaf flavors.
- Fresh Herbs for Depth: A combination of fresh parsley, thyme, and oregano adds a vibrant and herbaceous touch.
- Breadcrumbs for Binding: Breadcrumbs help bind the ingredients together and contribute to a moist and flavorful meatloaf.
- Parmesan Powerhouse: Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty richness to the meatloaf and creates that irresistible cheesy crust.
Ready to Bake Up Some Comfort? Here’s a basic outline (quantities may vary depending on the recipe you choose):
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Ingredients:
- Ground beef
- Fresh parsley, thyme, and oregano (chopped)
- Breadcrumbs
- Eggs
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Milk
- Salt and pepper
- Grated Parmesan cheese
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Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped herbs, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Form the meatloaf mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared loaf pan.
- Top generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips:
- For extra moisture, add a grated zucchini or shredded carrots to the meatloaf mixture.
- Want a spicier kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mix.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated for future meals.
Final Thoughts:
This Herb-Crusted Parmesan Meatloaf is a delicious and easy way to elevate your weeknight dinner routine. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines the familiar comfort of classic meatloaf with exciting new flavors and textures. So ditch the ordinary, grab your fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese, and bake up a batch of this delightful dish!