This Savory Herb-Stuffed Meatloaf is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. Packed with fresh herbs and a juicy beef blend, it’s the perfect centerpiece for a hearty family meal. Let’s dive into this flavor-packed recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ground beef forms the base of this meatloaf, providing a rich, meaty flavor and hearty texture. Opt for an 80/20 blend for the best balance of flavor and moisture. Breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf together, ensuring it holds its shape while staying tender. Onion and garlic add depth and a subtle sweetness, balancing the savory profile. Eggs act as a binder, helping everything stick together nicely. Milk adds moisture, keeping the meatloaf from drying out. Ketchup and Worcestershire sauce provide tangy, umami-rich notes. Salt and black pepper season the dish perfectly, while olive oil ensures the onions and garlic sauté smoothly. A mix of fresh parsley, basil, and oregano infuses the loaf with aromatic herbal notes that truly make it special.
Pair this meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort meal. For a lighter option, serve with a crisp garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. Leftovers make a fantastic meatloaf sandwich with a smear of mustard and a slice of cheddar on toasted bread.
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures it’s ready once your meatloaf is assembled. Next, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing them until they’re soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. The aroma should be irresistible!
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, sautéed onions and garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything thoroughly. This step is crucial for a well-blended loaf.
Lay out a piece of parchment paper on your workspace. Flatten the meat mixture into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. This is your blank canvas for the herbs!
In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped parsley, basil, and oregano. Spread this herb blend evenly over the meat rectangle. Starting from one end, carefully roll the meat up tightly to form a loaf. This part can be a bit messy, but the results are worth it.
Transfer the loaf to a baking dish. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every slice is moist and flavorful.