Easy Weeknight Meatloaf Quick and Tasty Recipe

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Ready to whip up a delicious dinner in no time? My Easy Weeknight Meatloaf recipe is here to save your evening! This dish is simple, quick, and packed with flavor. You’ll love how easily you can mix the ingredients and pop it in the oven. With just a few basic items and some tips, you’ll impress your family or guests. Let’s dive in and create a meatloaf they’ll rave about!

Why I Love This Recipe

1. Comforting Flavor: This meatloaf is packed with a blend of cheeses and herbs that create a warm, inviting flavor, perfect for family dinners.
2. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
3. Versatile Dish: Serve it hot with sides like mashed potatoes or cold in sandwiches, making it a great option for any meal.
4. Leftover Friendly: This meatloaf tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent choice for meal prep and leftovers.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients Needed

– 1 pound ground beef

– 1 cup breadcrumbs

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

To start, ground beef is the base of our meatloaf. It gives the dish flavor and juiciness. I like to use a mix of cheeses. Parmesan adds a sharp taste, while mozzarella makes it creamy and rich.

Vegetables and Seasoning

– 1 small onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Next, we need some veggies. Onion and garlic add sweetness and aroma. Fresh herbs like parsley make the dish bright and fresh. Worcestershire sauce brings a deep flavor. Oregano and thyme add warmth to every bite.

Topping Ingredients

– 1 cup ketchup

– Optional garnishes (like fresh parsley)

Finally, for the topping, we use ketchup. It gives a sweet and tangy glaze. You can add fresh parsley on top for a nice color. This simple garnish makes the dish look inviting.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

– First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a great bake.

– Grab a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Grease it well to prevent sticking.

Mixing the Ingredients

– In a big bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef with 1 cup of breadcrumbs.

– Add 1 small finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves.

– Mix in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan and 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.

– Next, toss in 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley.

– Crack in 2 large eggs and pour in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.

– Don’t forget 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and dried thyme, plus 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.

– Use your hands or a fork to mix. Be gentle; overmixing makes it tough.

Baking the Meatloaf

– Shape the mixture into a loaf. Place it in the greased pan.

– Spread 1 cup of ketchup on top. This adds a tasty glaze.

– Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes. It’s done when it hits 160°F (70°C).

– Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy.

– Serve warm, with extra ketchup and your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or veggies.

Tips & Tricks

Shortcuts for Preparation

– Use a food processor for quick chopping of onion and garlic.

– Look for pre-mixed seasoning blends for meatloaf. These save time and add flavor.

Ensuring Moisture and Flavor

– To avoid a dry meatloaf, mix ingredients gently. Overmixing makes the loaf tough.

– Let the meatloaf rest after baking. This step helps juices spread evenly, keeping it moist.

Presentation Tips

– Serve slices on a bright platter; it makes the dish look more inviting.

– Garnish with fresh parsley for color and freshness. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete meal.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily change the meat in this recipe. Try ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. If you want a lighter option, consider ground lamb or pork for rich flavor.

If you need dairy-free options, skip the cheese. Use a vegan cheese substitute to keep the creamy taste. You can also replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water for binding.

Flavor Variations

To boost flavor, add spices and herbs. Try garlic powder, paprika, or cumin for a kick. Fresh herbs like basil or rosemary can brighten the dish.

You can also mix in vegetables for added texture and nutrients. Chopped bell peppers, grated carrots, or spinach blend well. These add moisture and flavor without extra work.

Different Toppings

While ketchup is common, you can use barbecue sauce for a sweet twist. For a tangy flavor, mix mustard with honey.

Creative glazes can include a mixture of honey and soy sauce. This adds a tasty glaze that caramelizes nicely during baking. Experiment with flavors to find your favorite topping.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

– Meatloaf lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge.

– Store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.

Freezing Meatloaf

– To freeze meatloaf, let it cool completely first.

– Wrap it in plastic wrap and then in foil.

– It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

– To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

– Heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Leftover Ideas

– Turn leftover meatloaf into meatloaf sandwiches.

– Chop it up for a tasty meatloaf hash with potatoes.

– Use it in a meatloaf pizza for a fun twist.

– For meal prep, cut into slices and pack with veggies for lunch.

FAQs

How long does it take to cook meatloaf?

Cooking meatloaf usually takes about 45 to 55 minutes. You want it to reach 160°F (70°C) inside. This ensures it is safe to eat. Always check the center with a meat thermometer. Don’t rush; letting it rest for 10 minutes helps keep it juicy.

Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can make meatloaf ahead of time. Prepare it and shape it into a loaf. Wrap it well and store it in the fridge. It can stay fresh for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking.

What can I serve with meatloaf?

Meatloaf pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options:

– Mashed potatoes

– Steamed green beans

– Roasted carrots

– Creamy coleslaw

– Fresh garden salad

These sides balance the meatloaf’s rich flavors and make a complete meal.

To make a tasty meatloaf, gather your ingredients carefully. Mix the ground beef with vegetables, seasonings, and breadcrumbs for the best flavor. Bake it in the oven and enjoy the smell filling your home. Remember, the right toppings can elevate your dish. If you follow these steps, you’ll create a meal everyone loves. Store leftovers properly for another delicious meal later. With these tips, you’ll always impress at the dinner table. Now it’s your turn to create your own meatloaf masterpiec

Comforting Cheesy Herb Meatloaf

A delicious and hearty meatloaf packed with cheese and herbs, perfect for a comforting meal.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 2 grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 2 shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 4 fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 2 black pepper
• 1 cup ketchup (for topping)

Instructions

 

• Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's perfectly heated for baking.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with the breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and fresh parsley.
• Add the eggs, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to the mixture.
• Using your hands or a fork, mix all the ingredients together until they are evenly combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
• Shape the combined mixture into a loaf shape and transfer it into a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan, pressing it gently to ensure it holds its shape.
• Generously spread the ketchup over the top of the meatloaf, creating a flavorful glaze that will enhance its taste.
• Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked and achieves an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
• After baking, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful loaf.
• Serve the meatloaf warm, with extra ketchup on the side if desired, complemented by your favorite vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

Notes

Let the meatloaf rest before slicing for better texture.

Keyword cheesy, comfort food, herb, meatloaf

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