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Savory Meatloaf Recipe with Italian Seasoning and Parmesan

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A flavorful and easy meatloaf recipe infused with Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary blend)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 50 grams)
  • ¾ cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned, about 90 grams)
  • ½ cup whole milk (120 ml)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • ⅓ cup tomato paste or ketchup (about 80 grams)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  3. In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes until soft and spongy.
  4. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, grated Parmesan, chopped onion, garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix gently until evenly combined without overmixing.
  5. Transfer the mixture into a prepared 9×5 inch loaf pan or shape into a loaf on a rimmed baking sheet. Pat gently to even thickness.
  6. In a small bowl, mix tomato paste or ketchup with a pinch of Italian seasoning or black pepper. Spread evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  7. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and glaze caramelizes.
  8. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid a dense meatloaf. Soaking breadcrumbs in milk keeps the meatloaf moist. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Rest the meatloaf before slicing for juicier slices. Tent with foil if glaze browns too quickly. Variations include using almond flour for gluten-free, adding red pepper flakes for heat, or folding in grated vegetables for extra nutrition.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, Italian seasoning, Parmesan, easy dinner, comfort food, family meal, weeknight dinner