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Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf
I still remember the first time I made Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf for my family. It was a chilly evening, and the warmth from the oven spread through our home. My kids came running, their eyes wide with curiosity and hunger. The smell of garlic and melting parmesan filled the air, haecaitg them to the kitchen. They crowded around, helping me mix the meat and herbs, laughing and sharing stories. That night, we shared not just a meal, but also memories that brought us closer together.
This recipe has a special place in my heart. It represents comfort, love, and the joy of being together. Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf warms the soul, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. It reminds me that home-cooked meals create a unique bond. Each bite carries a little piece of my family’s story, and I hope it becomes part of yours too.
Why Make This Recipe
Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf shines as a comfort food that everyone can enjoy. First, it offers amazing flavors. The rich, savory taste of garlic blends perfectly with the creamy parmesan, taking the ordinary meatloaf to a new level. In addition, this recipe uses ground chicken, making it a little lighter but still satisfying. You will taste the umami balance of garlic, cheese, and spices, leaving your taste buds to dance with delight.
Moreover, this meatloaf is convenient to make. You can prepare it in under 15 minutes! Simply mix your ingredients, pop it in the oven, and you’re free to spend time on other things while it bakes. This frees you up to help kids with homework, catch up on chores, or relax for a moment. Likewise, Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf works for various occasions. You can serve it for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week ahead.
Most importantly, this recipe is versatile. You can add your favorite herbs or spices to adjust the flavor. For instance, you might blend in some Italian herbs like oregano or basil for a savory twist. You can swap ground chicken for turkey or beef if you prefer, without altering the comfort of the dish.
Not only do people love the flavor, but they also appreciate the healthy ingredients. You control what goes into the meatloaf, allowing you to make it as nutritious as you like. Therefore, cooking this recipe helps you take charge of your family’s health.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Ground chicken
- 4 cloves fresh Garlic
- 1 medium Onion
- 2 large Eggs
- 2 tbsp Soy sauce
- 1 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, minced garlic, chopped onion, eggs, soy sauce, black pepper, salt, parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- Bake for 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf
Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf is better when served warm. Slice it into thick pieces for a hearty meal. To make your presentation special, drizzle some warm gravy over the top. You can also sprinkle additional parmesan for a nice touch. This meatloaf pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes or sautéed green beans.
Moreover, consider serving it along with a fresh salad to lighten the meal. A light vinaigrette salad can balance the richness of the meatloaf wonderfully. If you enjoy bread, serve some buttery garlic bread on the side.
Another idea is to make a meatloaf sandwich for lunch the next day. Simply slice the leftovers and put them between two pieces of bread with mustard or mayonnaise. It adds a nice twist to your lunch and reduces food waste.
How to Store Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf
To store Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf, let it cool completely first. This helps prevent moisture build-up, which could make it soggy. Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or foil. For longer storage, you can put it in an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator, where it will last for about 3 to 4 days.
If you’d like to freeze it, slice the meatloaf into individual portions. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them into a freezer-safe bag or container. This method makes it easy to take out only as much as you need later. Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy some, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven or microwave.
Tips to Make Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf
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Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic adds more flavor than garlic powder. When you mince fresh garlic, it becomes aromatic and melts into the meat mixture beautifully. It enhances that earthy flavor without overpowering the dish.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can make your meatloaf dense and tough. Aim for a nice, tender texture by being gentle when mixing.
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Bread Crumbs for Texture: Choose between plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs according to your taste. Breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf and create a lovely texture. If you want more flavor, Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs pack an extra punch.
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Check for Doneness: Always use a cooking thermometer to ensure your meatloaf is done. The internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C). This helps you avoid undercooking or overcooking it, ensuring juicy and safe meat.
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Rest Before Slicing: Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it moist and flavorful. Not waiting could lead to dry meatloaf when you slice it right away.
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Try Different Mix-Ins: Feel free to add chopped herbs like parsley, thyme, or even some chopped bell peppers for color and flavor. These can bring fresh notes to the overall taste, making it even more delightful.
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Experiment with Cheese: For a twist, try adding different types of cheese to the mixture. Cheddar adds a sharpness, while mozzarella makes it gooey. Both options can create new flavor experiences with every bite.
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Use Lean Meat: While ground chicken is a healthier option, you can try lean ground beef or turkey, depending on your preference. This can change the meatloaf’s flavor profile while still being a delicious meal.
Variation of Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf
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Cheesy Spinach Meatloaf: Blend in 1 cup of chopped, cooked spinach and another type of cheese, like mozzarella. This variation adds a creamy and delicious richness while incorporating greens for healthy eating.
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Barbecue Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf: Brush your meatloaf with barbecue sauce right before it finishes baking. This twist adds a sweet and tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the garlic and parmesan.
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Italian Herbs Version: Add 2 teaspoons of dried Italian herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to the mix. This creates a Mediterranean flavor profile, making each bite unforgettable and filled with aromatic delight.
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Spicy Jalapeño Meatloaf: Mix in finely chopped jalapeños for a kick of heat. This variation adds an exciting element for those who love a bit of spice in their meals while still keeping the classic garlic and parmesan flavors.
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Savory Mushroom Meatloaf: Sauté 1 cup of finely chopped mushrooms and incorporate them into your meat mixture. This brings an earthy depth to the dish, pairing wonderfully with the garlic and cheese.
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Low-Carb Meatloaf: Replace breadcrumbs with ground almonds or almond flour for a low-carb version. It still keeps the meatloaf moist and flavorful while catering to a low-carb friendly diet.
FAQs of Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf
1. How long does Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf take to prepare?
Preparing Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf takes only about 15 minutes. You mix all the ingredients, then pop it in the oven. The baking time is around 1 hour, totaling just over an hour to get this delicious dish on the table.
2. How should I store leftover Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf?
Store your leftover Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It will last in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider slicing it and freezing it for up to 3 months.
3. Can I substitute ground chicken?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey, beef, or even pork. Each type brings its own flavor profile. Regardless of what you use, ensure that the ground meat is lean for best results.
4. What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf?
Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, or a fresh garden salad. Consider a side of garlic bread or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
5. How do I know if the meatloaf is fully cooked?
To check if the meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This ensures safety and keeps the meatloaf juicy rather than dry.
6. Why is my meatloaf falling apart?
If your meatloaf falls apart, it may lack binders like breadcrumbs or eggs. Make sure to use enough breadcrumbs and mix the ingredients well. Alternatively, try adding a bit more egg to help the mixture hold together better.
Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Poultry
Description
A comforting and savory meatloaf made with ground chicken, fresh garlic, and parmesan cheese, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb Ground chicken
- 4 cloves fresh Garlic, minced
- 1 medium Onion, chopped
- 2 large Eggs
- 2 tbsp Soy sauce
- 1 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, minced garlic, chopped onion, eggs, soy sauce, black pepper, salt, parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- Bake for 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Serve warm with gravy and your favorite sides. Leftovers can be made into sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: meatloaf, garlic, parmesan, comfort food, family dinner, easy recipe
