Zesty Herb Meatloaf

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour
🍽 Serves: 6
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Get ready to elevate your meatloaf game with this Zesty Herb Meatloaf recipe! Infused with fresh herbs and a touch of Parmesan, it's a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. Perfect for dinner any night of the week.

Ingredients for Zesty Herb Meatloaf

Ground beef is the star of the show, providing rich flavor and a hearty texture. The breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf, while the milk keeps it moist and tender. A single egg adds structure.

Freshness comes from chopped parsley and basil, giving the loaf a vibrant flavor. The ketchup and Dijon mustard add a tangy, sweet-savory balance, while the garlic powder and onion powder infuse a subtle depth. Salt and black pepper enhance all the flavors.

Parmesan cheese contributes a nutty, savory touch, and the finely chopped onion adds a hint of sweetness and texture.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a meat thermometer for precise cooking. Undercooked or overcooked meatloaf never quite hits the spot.
  • If you prefer a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mix.
  • Don't skip the resting time; it's crucial for a juicy loaf.

Serving Suggestions

This meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. Add a side of roasted vegetables or steamed green beans to complete the plate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner option. Just be mindful of the cooking time as it might vary slightly.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day. Bake when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
Crushed crackers or rolled oats are great substitutes for breadcrumbs.

Zesty Herb Meatloaf Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that once your meatloaf is ready for baking, the oven is hot and waiting.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, and milk. Give it a good mix until the breadcrumbs are moistened, helping bind everything together.

Now, crack in the egg, and add in the chopped parsley, basil, ketchup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix these ingredients until everything is combined, distributing the flavors evenly.

Stir in the Parmesan cheese and finely chopped onion. These add a delightful complexity and texture to the loaf.

Grease a loaf pan, then transfer your meat mixture into the pan. Shape it gently into a loaf. Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top—this caramelizes beautifully as it bakes, adding a sweet glaze.

Place the loaf in your preheated oven and bake for about an hour, or until the internal temperature hits 160°F (71°C). Once done, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Infused with fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
  • Simple ingredients that pack a punch.
  • Perfectly moist and tender every time.
  • Easy to prepare and kid-friendly!

Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1/2 cup ketchup
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, and milk.
3. Add the egg, parsley, basil, ketchup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and finely chopped onion.
5. Transfer the mixture into a greased loaf pan and shape into a loaf.
6. Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top of the loaf.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
8. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

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