Meatloaf Parmesan combines the comforting, savory goodness of traditional meatloaf with the cheesy, herby flavors of a classic Italian Parmesan dish. It’s an amazing twist on a classic comfort food! Here’s a simple and delicious recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or a loaf pan.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or beef-pork mix), breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, chopped onion, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything together using your hands or a spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
- Transfer the meat mixture into your prepared loaf pan, or shape it into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet. Press it down gently so it’s even on all sides.
4. Bake the Meatloaf:
- Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until it’s fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You can also check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
5. Add Marinara Sauce and Cheese:
- Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven and spoon about 1 cup of marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce.
- Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Once the cheese has melted, remove the meatloaf from the oven.
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Vegetables: You can add finely chopped veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the meat mixture for added flavor and texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or marinara sauce for a little heat.
Serve this Meatloaf Parmesan with a side of pasta, garlic bread, or a simple green salad for a complete Italian-inspired meal. It’s the perfect comforting dinner, with that delightful cheesy topping! Would you adjust the spices or add any additional ingredients for a personalized touch?