The Ultimate Cheesy Meatloaf Recipe with Fresh Herbs

Meatloaf is a classic comfort dish, perfect for family dinners and easy to customize with your favorite flavors. This recipe takes it up a notch by incorporating a blend of fresh herbs, a savory sauce, and a delicious layer of melted cheese that makes each bite irresistible. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of creating a mouthwatering cheesy meatloaf, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a simple meal for a cozy evening or hosting friends for dinner, this dish will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Meatloaf Recipe

This meatloaf is:

• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of ground beef, fresh herbs, and a rich tomato-based sauce creates a delicious balance of savory and aromatic flavors.
• Perfectly Cheesy: A generous layer of cheese melts on top, adding creamy richness to every bite.
• Easy to Make: With minimal preparation and simple ingredients, this dish is straightforward yet impressive.
• Versatile: You can customize the recipe to your taste by adding vegetables, switching up the cheese, or even incorporating different herbs.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• Ground Beef (1 kg) – Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess fat.
• Onion (1, diced) – Adds a bit of sweetness and texture to the meatloaf.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – For that savory depth of flavor.
• Bell Peppers (1 red, 1 green, sliced) – These add a touch of color and natural sweetness.
• Breadcrumbs (1 cup) – Helps bind the meatloaf and add texture.
• Egg (1 large) – The key binding ingredient for a well-formed loaf.
• Tomato Paste (2 tbsp) – Adds tanginess and helps to thicken the sauce.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp) – A little umami flavor booster.
• Fresh Thyme and Parsley (chopped) – Gives the dish a fresh and vibrant flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Use a sharp cheddar for a rich, cheesy topping.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – For sautéing vegetables.
• Salt & Pepper (to taste)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Prepare the vegetables: In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion, garlic, and bell peppers until they are soft and slightly caramelized (about 5-7 minutes). Set aside to cool.

3. Mix the meatloaf base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, egg, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and half of the chopped fresh herbs. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix everything thoroughly, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. Form the meatloaf: Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a lightly greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

5. Add the tomato topping: Spread a thin layer of tomato paste over the top of the meatloaf to give it a glossy finish and to enhance the flavor.

6. Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F).

7. Add the cheese: In the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the meatloaf. Return it to the oven and let the cheese melt and bubble, creating a delicious golden crust.

8. Garnish with fresh herbs: Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with the remaining chopped thyme and parsley for a burst of freshness.

Pro Tips for the Best Meatloaf:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs like thyme and parsley elevate the flavor significantly.
• Don’t Overmix: When mixing the ground beef with other ingredients, be careful not to overwork the mixture, as it can make the meatloaf tough.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking helps the juices redistribute throughout the loaf, resulting in a more moist and flavorful dish.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Want to add more veggies or change up the cheese? This recipe is versatile. Try adding grated zucchini, carrots, or even different types of cheese like mozzarella or gouda.

Serving Suggestions:

This cheesy meatloaf pairs well with:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food side dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: A colorful mix of roasted carrots, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts adds a healthy balance.
• Green Salad: A crisp, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the meatloaf.

FAQs about Cheesy Meatloaf:

• Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
  Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf up to 24 hours in advance. Simply form the loaf, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Let it come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.

• How do I store leftovers?
  Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices of the meatloaf for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
  Yes! Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of regular breadcrumbs.

Conclusion

This cheesy meatloaf recipe combines classic comfort food with a fresh twist, thanks to the herbs and delicious layer of cheddar cheese. It’s easy to make and perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering. Give it a try and let us know how you like it!

This recipe is sure to become a family favorite in no time. Enjoy!