Meatloaf is one of those timeless dishes that feels like a warm hug—simple, satisfying, and full of nostalgia. But this isn’t your average meatloaf. This Parmesan Meatloaf recipe blends juicy ground beef and turkey with herbs, garlic, parmesan, and marinara for a cheesy Italian twist on a classic American favorite.
Inspired by my grandmother’s Sunday roasts, this version adds a layer of rich umami and tenderness with Italian cheese and breadcrumbs. It’s perfect for any season—whether served with summer greens or cozy mashed potatoes in winter.
Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Meatloaf
-
Moist and Flavor-Packed
Ground turkey lightens it up while beef brings depth. Parmesan adds a savory punch in every bite. -
Family-Friendly
Kids love the cheesy top, and the texture is soft yet satisfying. -
Make-Ahead and Freezer Friendly
Prepare it in advance and reheat for a quick, hearty dinner. -
Perfect for Every Season
Serve with a fresh salad in summer or roasted veggies in winter.
Ingredients (Serves 12)
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 2 eggs
- ½ teaspoon basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1–2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup Italian-flavored breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded Italian cheese blend
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan and place it on a baking tray lined with foil (for easier cleanup).
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine:
- Ground beef and ground turkey
- Eggs
- Breadcrumbs
- Spices (basil, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper)
- Minced garlic and chopped onion
- Parmesan cheese
Tip: Be careful not to overmix—this can make the meatloaf dense instead of tender.
Step 3: Shape and Sauce
Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down gently and top with marinara sauce, spreading evenly.
Step 4: First Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, until the center is nearly cooked through.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Sprinkle with the shredded Italian cheese blend and a little extra parmesan. Return to the oven for 10 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps it moist.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Parmesan Meatloaf with:
- Garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta
- A crisp green salad with Italian vinaigrette
- Roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots
- A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon
Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezing Tips
- Make Ahead: Assemble the meatloaf the night before, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Store Leftovers: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze slices or the whole loaf for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F, covered with foil, until heated through.
Recipe Tips
- Mix Gently: Use your hands or a fork to combine the meat gently for the best texture.
- Swap the Sauce: Try vodka sauce, tomato-basil, or even BBQ for a flavor twist.
- Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like heat.
- Double It: Make two—one for now, one for the freezer!
Variations to Try
- All Beef Version: Prefer a more traditional flavor? Use only ground beef.
- Chicken Parm Meatloaf: Use ground chicken and top with mozzarella and extra marinara.
- Mushroom Mix-In: Add ½ cup finely chopped mushrooms for earthiness and moisture.
- Keto-Friendly Swap: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
Final Thoughts
This Parmesan Meatloaf proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be boring. Juicy, cheesy, and deeply flavorful, it’s a meal that feels special without extra effort. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers on every front.
It’s a dish I come back to again and again—and now, I hope it becomes one of your family favorites too.
Parmesan Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 2 eggs
- ½ teaspoon basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 –2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 onion finely chopped
- ¼ cup Italian-flavored breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded Italian cheese blend
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan and place it on a baking tray lined with foil (for easier cleanup).
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine:
- Ground beef and ground turkey
- Eggs
- Breadcrumbs
- Spices (basil, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper)
- Minced garlic and chopped onion
- Parmesan cheese
Tip: Be careful not to overmix—this can make the meatloaf dense instead of tender.
Step 3: Shape and Sauce
- Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down gently and top with marinara sauce, spreading evenly.
Step 4: First Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, until the center is nearly cooked through.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Sprinkle with the shredded Italian cheese blend and a little extra parmesan. Return to the oven for 10 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps it moist.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
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