Can I use only one type of meat instead of the beef and turkey blend?

Absolutely! This recipe is wonderfully flexible. Stick with all beef for a richer, heartier flavor, or switch to all turkey for something a bit lighter. Just remember, turkey is a bit leaner, so consider adding an extra splash of marinara or a drizzle of olive oil to keep the loaf tender.

What’s the best way to tell if my meatloaf is done?

The most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safety. If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure the juices run clear and the meat looks cooked through.

Can I prepare this meatloaf in advance?

Yes! Assemble the loaf a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, simply add the marinara and bake as instructed—perfect for those hectic weekdays.

How do I keep my meatloaf from falling apart?

Binding ingredients like eggs, breadcrumbs, and cheese work together to hold the loaf together. Be sure not to skip them, and let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to help it keep its shape.

Parmesan Meatloaf Recipe

Description

This Parmesan Meatloaf brings together ground beef and turkey with Italian seasonings, tangy marinara, and melty mozzarella for a flavorful, juicy main course. Perfect for family dinners, this recipe is easy to prepare, loaded with savory flavors, and topped with a cheesy crust for ultimate comfort.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Meat Mixture

1 lb. ground beef
1 lb. ground turkey
1 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
2 tsp. minced garlic
1/4 cup bread crumbs
2 large eggs
1 cup onion, chopped
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Toppings

1/2 cup marinara sauce
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking once your meatloaf is assembled.
Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground turkey, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, bread crumbs, eggs, chopped onion, grated parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste. Use your hands to knead the mixture until all ingredients are evenly distributed and well combined.
Shape the Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it into a standard loaf pan, patting down to remove any air gaps.
Add Marinara Sauce & Bake: Evenly spread the marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf. Transfer the pan to the oven and bake for 50 minutes.
Add Cheese & Finish Baking: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Rest & Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for several minutes before slicing to set the juices. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Notes

You can use all ground beef or all ground turkey if preferred.
For extra richness, double the parmesan cheese.
Letting the meatloaf rest after baking helps retain moisture and makes slicing easier.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/5 meatloaf
Calories: 390
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 510mg
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 34g
Cholesterol: 145mg