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Delicious Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf served on a plate with herbs.

Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf

This juicy and cheesy garlic Parmesan meatloaf is a comforting weeknight dish that's easy to make and meal-prep friendly, with flavors reminiscent of your favorite Italian diner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb Ground beef (about 90/10 or 85/15) For juiciness
  • 1 lb Ground turkey or chicken Optional, to mix with beef for a lighter loaf
  • 8 cloves Fresh garlic, minced This is the star ingredient
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Use the real stuff for best flavor
  • 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs Or plain breadcrumbs + Italian seasoning
  • 2 large Eggs
  • 1/2 cup Milk or cream Use unsweetened oat/almond milk if preferred
  • 1 small Onion, very finely minced or grated
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley or dried Italian herbs
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder For additional flavor
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil or avocado oil For brushing the top
  • 1 cup Optional: shredded mozzarella for a cheesy top
  • 1/2 cup Optional: tomato sauce or marinara for serving

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment or lightly grease a loaf pan.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic, onion, herbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Parmesan.
  • Add the breadcrumbs and let them sit in the mixture for about 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the ground meat and mix gently until combined.
  • Shape the mixture into a loaf on the prepared pan or press it into the loaf pan.
  • Brush the top lightly with olive oil.

Cooking

  • Bake for about 40-50 minutes, checking around the 30-minute mark to cover with foil if the top is browning too fast.
  • In the last 10 minutes, add shredded mozzarella or extra Parmesan if desired.
  • Check that the meatloaf is done when the center reaches 160°F and the juices run clear.

Resting

  • Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

This meatloaf is versatile; it can be adjusted for gluten-free or low-carb diets. Perfect for meal prep and reheats well. Serve with mashed potatoes or in hoagie rolls.
Keyword comfort food, Easy Recipe, Garlic Parmesan, Meal Prep, meatloaf