Dinner

Meatloaf with Parmesan Cheese Recipe

ByThomas Greene October 24, 2025October 24, 2025

Introduction

This classic meatloaf is a hearty, comforting dish made with ground beef and enriched with savory Parmesan cheese. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a satisfying family dinner.

The image shows a white plate with three main parts of the meal. The largest portion is two thick slices of brown meatloaf with a textured, slightly crumbly surface, and bits of browned edges. To the upper right of the meatloaf is a large, fluffy mound of creamy white mashed potatoes, topped with a drizzle of yellow butter and sprinkled with black pepper. On the lower right side of the plate, there is a small bunch of bright green, cooked broccolini with a slightly shiny, tender look. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a beige cloth napkin nearby, and a green-tinted glass cup is partly visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 lbs ground beef
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
1/3 cup ketchup
1/4 cup yellow mustard
1 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
2 eggs
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, mustard, salt, pepper, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and eggs. Mix thoroughly with your hands until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 2: Transfer the meat mixture into an 8 x 4 inch loaf pan and shape it into a rounded loaf. Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella if using.
Step 3: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155–160°F (68–71°C). Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes; it will continue to cook and reach about 160–165°F (71–74°C).
Step 4: Slice the meatloaf and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, add 1/4 cup of milk or finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the mixture.
Try swapping yellow mustard with Dijon for a slightly tangier flavor.
Use panko bread crumbs instead of Italian seasoned for a lighter texture; just add extra seasoning to compensate.
If you prefer a crispy crust, bake the meatloaf on a rimmed baking sheet instead of a loaf pan.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. Meatloaf also freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

A rectangular white baking dish holds a freshly baked lasagna with a golden brown, slightly bubbled cheese layer on top. The top layer is thick and creamy with melted mozzarella cheese that has patches of darker browned spots around the edges. Beneath this cheese layer, the visible edges show a rich, dark red tomato sauce mixed with ground meat and visible pasta sheets that peek through in some places. The lasagna looks thick and hearty, with multiple layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese stacked inside the dish. The baking dish sits on a crumpled white cloth over a white marbled textured surface with soft natural light highlighting the melted cheese texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative. Since it’s less fatty, consider adding moisture with a little extra ketchup or a tablespoon of olive oil to keep the meatloaf juicy.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

The safest way is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach between 155°F and 160°F before resting and about 160°F to 165°F after resting.