Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a seriously delicious twist on classic comfort food, this Mouthwatering Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf will win over everyone at the table. With a savory blend of juicy ground beef, aromatic garlic, and a cheesy parmesan kick, this meatloaf is perfect for Sunday suppers, cozy weeknights, or impressing company. You’ll love how easy it is and the way your kitchen smells while it bakes. Let’s get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf

Super flavorful with rich garlic and creamy parmesan in every bite.
Easy to make with simple ingredients — perfect for busy weeknights.
Stays tender and juicy, never dry or bland.
Leftovers taste just as fantastic for sandwiches or meal prep.
Family-friendly and pairs well with all your favorite sides.

Ingredients

1 ½ lbs (680g) ground beef (80/20 preferred for juiciness)
¾ cup (75g) grated parmesan cheese
½ cup (60g) Italian breadcrumbs
½ cup (120ml) whole milk
3 large garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, finely diced
2 large eggs
2 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 2 teaspoon dried parsley)
2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
For the topping:

¼ cup (25g) grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoon (30ml) melted butter
1 garlic clove, minced

Directions

Prep Time:

Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 55 minutes
Total: 1 hour 10 minutes

Step 1: Prepare the Oven & Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, grated parmesan, breadcrumbs, milk, minced garlic, diced onion, eggs, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overwork the meatloaf mixture for best tenderness.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet. Smooth the top and sides for even cooking.

Step 4: Add the Topping

In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, extra minced garlic, and ¼ cup parmesan. Spread this garlicky-butter mixture evenly over the top of your meatloaf.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 160°F (71°C) and the top is golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing so the juices redistribute.

Notes

For extra-moist meatloaf, don’t skip the milk—it’s key!
Finely dice your onion for even texture and better flavor throughout.
Resting the loaf after baking helps prevent crumbling when slicing.

3 Tasty Variations

Cheesy Center: Add a layer of mozzarella in the middle for a melty surprise.
Spicy Kick: Mix in ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
Turkey Option: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter twist and adjust cooking time as needed.

Required Equipment

Large mixing bowl
9x5-inch loaf pan or lined baking sheet
Wooden spoon or spatula
Meat thermometer (for best results)
Knife for slicing

Storage Instructions

Store leftover Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in foil (up to 2 months). Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Serve thick slices with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted green beans.
Pair with a crisp Caesar salad and crusty garlic bread.
Try leftovers in a sandwich with melty provolone and baby spinach.

Pro Tips for the Best Meatloaf

Mix meatloaf only until just combined; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to keep it juicy and intact.
Always use a digital meat thermometer for perfect doneness without guessing.

FAQ

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prep the meatloaf a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I use ground chicken or pork instead?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or pork; just watch the internal temp and adjust cook time if needed.

How do I keep my meatloaf from drying out?

Don’t skip the milk and eggs, and avoid overbaking. Letting it rest before slicing keeps it extra juicy too!