Here’s a detailed recipe for a Baked Meatloaf topped with melted cheese and fresh parsley. Comfort food at its finest!
🍖 Cheesy Baked Meatloaf
⏱ Time
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Prep: 15–20 minutes
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Bake: 50–60 minutes
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Total: ~1 hour 15 minutes
🍽 Servings
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6 servings
🛒 Ingredients
Meatloaf
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1½ lbs (680 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
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1 cup breadcrumbs
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 egg
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½ cup milk
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
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1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Topping
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1 cup shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix
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Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
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Optional: 2 tablespoons ketchup or tomato sauce to brush on top
🔪 Directions
1. Preheat Oven
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Make the Meatloaf Mixture
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In a large bowl, combine:
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Ground meat
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Breadcrumbs
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Onion
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Garlic
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Egg
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Milk
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Salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs
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Mix gently until combined—don’t overmix, or meatloaf may become dense.
3. Shape and Bake
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Shape mixture into a loaf shape or place in a loaf pan.
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Optional: Brush a thin layer of ketchup or tomato sauce on top for sweetness and color.
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Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes.
4. Add Cheese
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Remove meatloaf from oven.
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Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
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Return to oven for 5–10 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve
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Let meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
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Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
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Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
✅ Tips & Variations
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Juicier meatloaf: Mix in grated carrots or zucchini
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Spicy twist: Add ½ teaspoon chili flakes or smoked paprika
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Glaze option: Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard for a sweet-savory topping
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Ground turkey/chicken: Can substitute for a lighter version